Mathematics to Be Compulsory in Senior Schools, CS Migos Declares
In a major policy reversal, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has announced that Mathematics will now be a mandatory subject for all senior school students under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
Speaking during the National Conversation on the CBC held on Thursday, CS Migos stated that the decision followed extensive consultations with education stakeholders across the country. The stakeholders overwhelmingly advocated for the retention of mathematics as a core subject, citing its critical role in both academic success and real-world application.
“Some form of mathematics will be made compulsory for all three senior school pathways. Students in the STEM pathway will continue to study pure Mathematics, while those in the Arts & Sports and Social Sciences pathways will undertake simplified versions of the subject,” Migos clarified.
Previously, the Ministry had proposed removing Mathematics from the list of compulsory subjects in senior secondary, a move that was met with resistance from educational professionals and unions. The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) had led the opposition, with acting Secretary General Moses Nthurima warning that such a change would undermine students’ future prospects.
“Mathematics is an essential subject for building a competent workforce for the 21st century. It cuts across all disciplines, including humanities and sports,” Nthurima had argued.
In the CBC structure, senior school students are required to take four compulsory subjects: English or Kenya Sign Language, Kiswahili, Physical Education, and Community Service Learning. They then select three more subjects from a list of 38 options, based on their chosen pathway.
The reinstatement of Mathematics as a core requirement is being lauded as a move that aligns CBC with global education standards and ensures learners are well-equipped for diverse career opportunities.
The Ministry is expected to work closely with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) to implement curriculum adjustments that reflect the new directive. Teachers will also undergo training to ensure effective delivery of both standard and simplified math content across all pathways.
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Mathematics to Be Compulsory in Senior Schools, CS Migos Declares