How the 8-4-4 system has been a thorn in the flesh since its inception

Distribution of examination material at Kapsoya Primary school, UasinGishu County. [Christopher Kipsang, Standard]

As the new curriculum, popularly known as Competency-Based Curriculum takes centre stage in the Kenyan education sector, it will be unfair if the 8-4-4 system is swept under the carpet without highlighting some of the weaknesses that necessitated its termination.

I am persuaded that the first graduates of 8-4-4 would attest to the fact that the system was ideal in imparting real-life skills among learners. It commenced in January 1985 founded on the philosophy of young citizenry achieving self-reliance through education. The system was expected to encourage orientation towards acquisition of technical and vocational skills.