The Evolution of Education Policies by the Ministry of Education Kenya
The Ministry of Education Kenya has undergone significant changes over the years regarding education policies. The evolution of these policies has been aimed at addressing various challenges while ensuring access to quality education for all learners in the country. In this article, we will discuss the different phases of the Ministry of Education Kenya’s education policies and their impact.
Phase 1: The Early Years (1963- 1980)
During the early years of independence, the government focused on expanding access to education in Kenya. The government’s main focus was to ensure that all children, regardless of their background, could have access to primary education. This period saw the establishment of many primary schools and was marked by the introduction of the 7-4-2-3 education system.
In 1979, the Ministry of Education Kenya released the Education for All report. The report aimed at improving the quality of education by eliminating regional disparities in educational access, improving teacher training, and providing a relevant curriculum, among other things. The government implemented several recommendations from the report, including introducing new subjects and revising the existing curriculum.
Phase 2: Transition to Free Primary Education (1981- 2002)
During this period, the government sought to ensure that all children had access to education by making primary education free. The introduction of free primary education was a significant milestone in the provision of basic education in Kenya. It increased access to education, especially for children from low-income families.
In 1985, the government introduced the 8-4-4 system to replace the 7-4-2-3 system. The new system aimed at reducing unemployment by providing learners with practical skills relevant to the job market. The 8-4-4 system also introduced a new subject, HIV/AIDS education, aimed at creating awareness of the disease.
Phase 3: Quality Education (2003-2012)
In 2003, the government introduced the Kenya Education Sector Support Program to address the quality of education. The program aimed at improving access to education, the quality of education, and learner performance. The program introduced several initiatives, including the free primary education, the capitation grant, and the school feeding program.
Moreover, the program aimed at improving teacher training and management practices, among other things. The government, through the Ministry of Education Kenya, also increased funding to the education sector to support the implementation of different initiatives.
Phase 4: The Competency-Based Curriculum (2013-Present)
In 2013, the government introduced the new Competency-Based Curriculum. The new curriculum aimed at enabling learners to acquire skills relevant to the 21st century. The curriculum focused on developing core competencies such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
The implementation of the competency-based curriculum has been challenging, with some critics arguing that the curriculum was rushed and not well prepared. However, the government has continued with the implementation, and the curriculum is now being piloted in selected schools in the country.
Conclusion
The Ministry of Education Kenya’s evolution of education policies has been aimed at addressing various challenges while ensuring access to quality education for all learners in the country. The different phases have seen significant changes in the education system, from the introduction of new subjects to the implementation of free primary education and the competency-based curriculum. The government’s efforts have significantly increased access to education and improved the quality of education in Kenya.
