Written by Alice Njoki
Mathematics will no longer be a mandatory subject for students transitioning to senior secondary school under Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). This announcement was made by Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang on Thursday, March 13, 2025, during a press briefing in Nairobi.
The change is part of the government’s efforts to align education with students’ interests and career aspirations.
Let’s face it, many people don’t really like math. For years, students in Kenya had to study it whether they liked it or not .But now they have a choice to pick subjects that match their passions and career dreams.
This change starts with Grade 9 learners, the first group under CBC. They’ll select their subjects and senior schools in the second term of this year. Parents and students will discuss their interests during the upcoming break, and schools will guide them when they return.
Senior schools will now offer three pathways: STEM (science, tech, engineering, math), Social Sciences, or Arts & Sports. Students won’t need to take all three; they’ll pick one that fits their goals. Schools will also be categorized as day schools, hybrid schools (mix of boarding and day), or special needs schools for learners with disabilities.
To ensure fair placement, 60% of a student’s final Grade 9 score will come from a national exam called the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA). The rest will be based on teacher assessments and primary school performance. If students dislike their school placement, they can request transfers.
The government hopes this shift will make education more exciting and practical, preparing students for careers they truly want. As Kenya’s education landscape evolves, one thing is clear, the future is all about choice and skill-building.