CBC education system in Kenya was introduced during the final term of the fourth president of the Republic of Kenya, Honorable Uhuru Kenyatta. The competency based curriculum has since replaced the 8-4-4 system which was regarded by majority as theoretical and not practical.
The shift from the traditional 8-4-4 education system to the CBC education system in Kenya was received by open arms by many but part of the boomer generation has started expressing faults with the new curriculum just two years after the shift. Are there things this older generation see that we don’t? As a millennial who is a product of the 8-4-4 system and now watch my younger siblings go through the CBC, I can tell you for free both systems have their merits and demerits, however in this blog post I will tell you why the boomers may somehow prefer the 8-4-4 education system over CBC.
Table of Contents
CBC lacks Simplicity
Since the introduction of the CBC education stem in Kenya, one thing has been evident—confusion among students, parents and even teachers. One of the main advantages of the 8-4-4 system is its clarity and simplicity. In the 8-4-4 system, students go through eight years of primary education, four years of secondary education, and then have the option to pursue four years of university education. The structure is straightforward and easy to understand, making it simpler for students, parents, and educators to plan their educational journeys.
The CBC education system in Kenya however introduces a more complex structure, with its 2-6-3-3-3 design, which can be more confusing for boomers, blame it on the fact, most people at the center of CBC i.e. teachers and parents are baby boomers. The inclusion of pre-primary education and the addition of new phases like junior secondary and senior secondary has made the system seem convoluted.
Focused Specialization
The 8-4-4 system allows students to specialize in specific areas of interest during their four years of secondary education. This specialization can help students identify their talents and passions, enabling them to make informed choices when selecting their career paths. The CBC, on the other hand, promotes a more generalized approach, which may not adequately prepare students for specialized careers.
National Examinations
Under the 8-4-4 system, students take standardized national examinations, such as the KCPE and KCSE, which provide a fair assessment of their knowledge and skills. These examinations have a long history of maintaining academic standards and are well-recognized worldwide. This ensures that Kenyan students are adequately prepared for the global job market and further education.
The CBC education system in Kenya is yet to come up with ways of setting standardized tests for everyone. While it emphasizes continuous practical assessment, it still lacks a standardized national examination system. This cannot sit right with a generation that have long gauged performance by a uniform standardized test.
Transition from School to Workforce
The 8-4-4 system is more aligned with the transition from school to the workforce. After completing their four-year university or college education, students are typically ready to enter the job market with specialized skills and knowledge. This system produces graduates who are readily employable, addressing the country’s workforce needs effectively.
The CBC isn’t really what the boomers wished us—go to school, get good grades and get a good job. To them CBC may sound like you are trying to get a good job without good grades. The Competency Based Curriculum may sound practical but may often require additional reforms and adjustments to ensure that its graduates are adequately prepared for the workforce, as the focus is primarily on nurturing competencies rather than specialized knowledge.
Familiarity and Legacy
Familiarity is one of the surest things that make the boomers prefer 8-4-4 to the CBC.Imagine going to a restaurant in a foreign country that serves your local food, would you order something foreign or the one you are familiar with? The 8-4-4 system has been in place for several decades, and it has produced successful individuals who have contributed significantly to Kenya’s development. The familiarity of this system to parents, educators, and employers makes it easier to assess and understand a student’s educational background and achievements. Legacy systems have the advantage of a proven track record, which can provide a sense of reliability and consistency in education.CBC has no legacy yet.
Summary list of why baby boomers prefer 8-4-4 over CBC Education System in Kenya
- CBC lacks simplicity
- Familiarity and legacy
- Transition from school to workforce
- Standardized national examinations
From these valid reasons, it is evident that while the CBC education system in Kenya represents an attempt to modernize and enhance the country’s educational system, some and not just the boomers may still prefer the familiarity, clarity, and proven success of the 8-4-4 system.
However, it’s essential to remember that both systems have their strengths and weaknesses, and the preference for one over the other may vary depending on individual perspectives and needs. The key is to continually improve and adapt the education system to best serve the students and the country’s future.
