With 4 years to go before the first cohort of 1.2 million Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) learners exit high school, private universities in Kenya are getting ahead of the curve to prepare for their transition to higher education. The shift to Competency Based Education and Training (CBET) is driving these institutions to review curricula, enhance training programs and strengthen industry linkages.
Coordinated Implementation
At a recent meeting in Mombasa County, vice chancellors from 34 private universities agreed to structure programs that align to CBET principles. Kenya Association of Private Universities chairman, Stephen Ngari, emphasized the need for a coordinated approach between government entities, private institutions and other stakeholders to facilitate a smooth transition for high school students to universities by 2029.
“The CBET framework seeks to integrate practical skills with industry linkages through a dual training approach, so that graduates are work-ready,” Mr. Ngari said.
Pathways and Career Choices
The pioneer CBC cohort is currently in Grade 9 and will sit for a national exam in November before joining senior school in 2026. At this stage, students will specialize in one of three pathways:
- Social Sciences
- Arts and Sports
- Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
Universities are responding by aligning their academic programs to these pathways to accommodate the diverse interests and competencies of incoming students.
Human Capital and Infrastructure
To support the transition, universities are focusing on research, academic collaborations and resource sharing. Catholic University of Eastern Africa is working with other institutions on joint research, teaching and grant applications to utilize academic infrastructure efficiently.
Kabarak University is also training and retraining academic staff to meet CBC students’ demands. Vice-Chancellor Henry Kiplangat said, “We need to invest in human capital and physical infrastructure. We have time to prepare before 2029 but it’s important that institutions and parents are engaged in the process.”
Government’s Role in Implementation
Despite the enthusiasm among private universities, there are concerns on government’s investment in CBC implementation. Prof. Kiplangat noted that there is need for substantial funding to make it successful, warning that inadequate infrastructure and human resource could compromise the quality of graduates.“The government must address the challenges in primary and secondary education, infrastructure and staffing. Without investment we will produce graduates who are not market ready,” he warned.
Career Options: Marine and Aviation Training
Some private universities are also expanding their programs to cater for emerging industries. Pioneer International University has introduced Bachelor of Science in Flight Operations and Business Aviation and Marine training programs.
“We are breaking the myth that Marine training is only for coastal regions,” said Pioneer International University Vice-Chancellor, Gideon Maina. “Our goal is to open up opportunities for CBC graduates and equip them with specialized skills.”