The Zetech University vice chancellor has cautioned leaders and education stakeholders against politicising the new curriculum, saying doing so will be detrimental to its implementation.
Prof Njenga Munene said the competency-based curriculum is what the country needs to enhance productivity and address issues that have affected the youth since Independence such as unemployment.
Speaking during the launch of the university’s revised service charter on the main campus in Ruiru on Monday, Munene called on leaders and stakeholders to stop negative propaganda that will dent the realisation of the CBC.
“The new curriculum was long overdue and is okay. Actually, other developed countries adopted a system similar to what has been introduced in our country. Therefore, I call on leaders to be very careful with education matters,” Munene said.
His sentiments come amid debate between parents and the Education ministry.
Esther Ang’awa, a parent and an advocate of the High Court, has sought court orders halting the implementation of the new curriculum, saying it is an economic burden to children, parents, teachers and guardians.
Ang’awa cites instances of procuring course books, learning materials and curriculum designs "without regard to the real dynamics of the Kenyan population and the needs of society".
On the other hand, the National Parents Association has moved to court to defend the new curriculum.
The national rollout of the CBC started in January 2019 at pre-primary I and II and Grades 1, 2 and 3 in lower primary.
The university don said like-minded leaders who have the interest of the next and future generations’ wellbeing should support the Education ministry and relevant stakeholders in ensuring smooth implementation of the CBC.
“The new system will equip learners with skill-based knowledge they can use to make a living or meet job market demands in the future. Therefore, we should all support its implementation for the sake of our children,” Munene said.
Zetech University deputy vice chancellor Alice Njuguna said the system is designed to train children and the youth to be more entrepreneurial and self-reliant
“This is what our country needs, a system that will equip, nurture and sharpen our children’s skills and talents, which will be of benefit to them and the country in the future. In years to come, the issue of unemployment will be a thing of the past,” Dr Njuguna said.
She noted that the university will train 100 per cent of its staff in preparation for the new curriculum.
The don at the same time averred that creativity, innovation and being tech-savvy will give them a competitive edge in the job market as modern technology is hastily taking up most jobs.
She also urged students to think beyond being employed and be entrepreneurial.
