Streamline CBC to address job market, FKE tells government

Federation of Kenya Employers CEO Jacqueline Mugo launches classrooms at Omuga Primary School in Homa Bay County. [James Omoro, Standard]

The Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) wants the government to streamline the implementation of the Competence Based Curriculum (CBC) to enable it address the emerging needs in the job market.

FKE Chief Executive Officer Jacqueline Mugo said there are evolving needs of the job market which should be addressed through implementation of the CBC.

Speaking when she launched classrooms funded by FKE under the Adopt A School Program at Omuga Primary School in Homa Bay County, Mugo urged the government put strategic measures in place for improving the effectiveness of the CBC.

The CEO said there is a pressing need for a comprehensive strategy to address the current challenges impeding implementation of the curriculum. This, she said, should be done with the aim of ensuring the curriculum meets the dynamic requirements of the job market.

Mugo told the government to ensure the curriculum is implemented in a manner that students are endowed with practical skills rather than just academic achievements.

“As a federation, we commend the government for its commitment to implement the CBC. However, there is a need for a comprehensive strategy to ensure our education system produces students who are not only academically successful but also possess practical skills which can meet the demand of employers,” Mugo said.

The CEO told the government to prioritize equipping schools, especially those in rural areas, with the necessary infrastructure to enhance implementation of CBC.

This comes amid concerns that many schools in rural parts of the country have poor infrastructure. In some schools, some students learn under trees while others learn in dilapidated classrooms.

According to Mugo, putting proper infrastructure and adequate facilities will enhance for seamless implementation of the curriculum. She said this will bridge the gap between children of the poor and children of the rich in providing education in Kenya.

“Schools need to be equipped with infrastructure and facilities to ensure seamless implementation of the CBC. Doing so will ensure equality in providing education and children acquire the quality of education they deserve regardless of whether they hail from rich or poor families,” Mugo said.

The Federation urged the government to invest in technology in the early years of education, especially in Grades 6-7, instead of waiting until senior secondary schools.

“Technology is key and makes graduates more relevant in the job market. The government should invest in equipping students with technological skills from their early stages of learning,” Mugo said.

Mugo told the Ministry of Education to provide clear communication and leadership to alleviate concerns of parents orchestrated by uncertainty over the transition of students from junior to senior secondary schools.

“FKE remains committed to collaborating with the government, education stakeholders, and employers to enhance the effectiveness of CBC,” Mugo said.