As the academic landscape evolves, the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) has confirmed that the eagerly anticipated Kiswahili set book for KCSE, ‘Nguu za Jadi’ by Prof Clara Momanyi, will reach schools by the end of January. This revelation comes after concerns were raised regarding the potential impact of delays on the current candidate class.
KICD’s Assurance Amidst Delays
Prof Charles O. Ong’ondo, the Director and Chief Executive Officer of KICD, addressed the delays, acknowledging challenges faced by the publisher. However, he assured stakeholders that KICD has intervened, and the distribution is expected to be completed by the end of the month.
“I am aware of the delay; the publisher had some challenges, but KICD has stepped in, and we expect distribution to be completed by the end of the month,” stated Prof Ong’ondo.
Concerns of Principals
Principals expressed concerns that the delay could impact the current candidate class, as they might not have sufficient time to study the new set book. The anxiety heightened due to the absence of a circular from the Ministry of Education (MoE) specifying when the book should be available.
Other Approved Set Books
In addition to ‘Nguu za Jadi,’ KICD approved other Kiswahili set books, including the play ‘Bembea’ by Dr Timothy Moriasi and the short story collection ‘Mapambazuko ya Machweo na Hadithi Nyingine.’ These replace ‘Kigogo’ and ‘Tumbo Lisiloshiba na Hadithi Nyingine,’ respectively.
For Literature in English, the compulsory novel ‘Father of Nations’ by Paul B. Vitta replaces ‘Blossoms of the Savannah,’ and the compulsory play ‘The Samaritan’ by John Lara replaces ‘A Doll’s House’ by Henrik Ibsen. Optional texts include ‘Artist of the Floating World’ by Kazuo Ishiguro, ‘A Silent Song and Other Stories’ edited by Godwin Siundu, and ‘Parliament of Owls’ by Adipo Sidang.