Kenya’s education system has gone through a big change with the introduction of the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) replacing the traditional 8-4-4 system. It’s all about skill development, practical learning and preparing students for real challenges, so it’s more relevant today.
we will cover:
- What CBC means in education
- When CBC was introduced in Kenya
- Advantages of CBC over 8-4-4 system
- Key concepts such as self-efficacy and community service learning in CBC
- How CBC prepares students for future careers
What is CBC in Education?
Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) is an education system that focuses on practical skills, creativity and talent development rather than just theoretical knowledge. It’s about what learners can do with the knowledge they have, promotes critical thinking and problem solving.
CBC is structured into three main levels:
- Early Years Education (EYE) – Pre-primary (PP1 & PP2) and Grades 1-3
- Middle School – Grades 4-9
- Senior School – Grades 10-12
This replaces the 8-4-4 education system which was exam oriented and theoretical.
When Was CBC Introduced in Kenya?
CBC was officially launched in 2017 as part of Kenya’s education reforms under the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD). The pilot phase started in 2018 and full implementation started in 2019. The goal was to replace the outdated 8-4-4 system which had been in place since 1985.
Advantages of CBC Over 8-4-4
| Feature | CBC (Competency-Based Curriculum) | 8-4-4 System |
|---|---|---|
| Learning Approach | Practical, hands-on, skill-based | Theoretical, exam-driven |
| Focus Areas | Talents, creativity, entrepreneurship | Memorization, academic subjects |
| Assessment | Continuous assessment | National exams (KCPE, KCSE) |
| Parental Involvement | High – parents participate in learning activities | Low – parents mainly support fees |
| Flexibility | Allows students to pursue their strengths | Rigid structure with limited career options |
| Technology Use | Encourages digital learning and innovation | Traditional classroom learning |
| Job Market Preparation | Prepares students for self-employment and careers | Focuses on passing exams for jobs |
Why CBC is Better Than 8-4-4
- Skill Based Learning – CBC equips students with practical skills preparing them for real challenges.
- Encourages Critical Thinking – Instead of rote memorization, CBC focuses on problem solving and creativity.
- Less Exam Pressure – Learners are assessed continuously reducing reliance on final exams.
- More Career Opportunities – Students can develop talents in arts, music, sports and entrepreneurship.
- Parental Involvement – Parents play an active role in their children’s education.
What is Self-Efficacy in CBC?
Self-efficacy is a learner’s believe in themselves to achieve tasks. In CBC self-efficacy is promoted through:
- Encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning
- Providing opportunities to develop confidence in various skills
- Allowing learners to set goals and achieve them independently
What is Community Service Learning in CBC?
Community Service Learning (CSL) is a key part of CBC where students engage in real projects that benefit society. This helps them develop:
- Social responsibility
- Leadership skills
- Problem solving abilities
Examples of CSL activities include:
- Environmental conservation projects
- Volunteering at children’s homes
- Conducting awareness campaigns on health and hygiene
What is the CBC Curriculum?
The CBC curriculum is structured around seven core competencies:
- Communication and Collaboration
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Imagination and Creativity
- Citizenship and Digital Literacy
- Self-Efficacy
- Learning to Learn
- Community Service Learning
When Was CBC Introduced in Kenya?
CBC was introduced in 2017, piloted in 2018 and fully implemented in 2019 for Grade 1 learners. By 2023 the first batch of CBC learners will be in Junior Secondary School (JSS).
