Competency-Based Curriculum breeds critical thinkers, say education experts

Eight years since the introduction of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to replace the 8-4-4 system, education experts say the country is now nurturing a generation of critical thinkers and problem solvers.

According to Dr. Josephine Wanjiku, an educationist and lecturer at Kenya Methodist University (KeMU), the new model, now referred to as Competency-Based Education (CBE), has transformed learning by emphasising practical skills, innovation and entrepreneurship.

“Unlike rote memorisation in the old system, CBE helps learners acquire skills through hands-on activities such as building, designing and crafting, preparing them for the job market,” said Dr. Wanjiku, who also serves as Director at Grasten Academy in Witeithie, Juja.

She noted that individualised learning under the new model allows students to progress at their own pace, making education more engaging and reducing dropout rates. The approach, she added, aligns with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) by equipping learners with practical competencies for national growth.

Dr. Wanjiku emphasised that CBE enables learners to identify and nurture their strengths early, fostering talent development and socio-economic stability. She also urged continued collaboration among stakeholders to ensure full implementation of the model.

AIPCA Bishop Paul Muhia echoed the sentiments, terming the curriculum “transformational” for both current and future generations.

“Learners can now identify their abilities early and focus on improving them, making them more productive citizens,” he said.

Bishop Muhia called on the government to address challenges facing the programme, including teacher training and inadequate facilities for hands-on learning.

“The government must equip schools with laboratories and studios to match the practical nature of CBE,” he added.

Parents, led by Philip Mwangi, praised the curriculum for enhancing parental and community participation in education.

“Parents are now more involved in their children’s learning journey. Despite the higher costs, we’ve seen positive changes in their behavior and thinking,” Mwangi said.

Stakeholders agreed that, while the transition has faced hurdles, the Competency-Based model is steadily shaping a generation better prepared to solve real-world challenges and drive Kenya’s development agenda.