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Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has called on universities to begin preparations for the first group of learners under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, who are expected to join higher education in 2029.
Speaking on Wednesday during Kisii University’s 14th Graduation Ceremony in Kisii County, Ogamba urged higher learning institutions to collaborate closely with the Commission for University Education (CUE) to design programmes aligned with the CBE framework.
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The move is aimed at ensuring readiness ahead of the estimated 1,130,459 candidates expected to sit the Kenya Senior Secondary Education Assessment in 2028.
“As a matter of strategic planning, our universities should proactively anticipate and prepare for this transition,” Ogamba said.
He highlighted that the ministry has developed a draft national implementation roadmap to guide the shift, which includes plans to retool university staff to deliver CBE-aligned programmes effectively.
“We have already made significant progress, including aligning teacher education programmes with the CBE framework, and we will continue to enhance the capacity of university staff on Competency-Based Education,” he added.
Ogamba also encouraged universities to foster creativity, innovation, and diversification of revenue streams to strengthen self-sufficiency, while ensuring that training aligns with the needs of a rapidly changing, technology-driven job market.
“This approach will expand opportunities for partnerships both locally and internationally, helping universities mobilise additional resources,” he noted.
During the ceremony, 4,018 students graduated with qualifications across various disciplines.
Kisii University Council Chairperson and acting Chancellor Dr. Sarah Ruto urged graduates to embrace lifelong learning and adaptability, emphasizing that modern employment requires continuous skill development consistent with the CBE philosophy.
Meanwhile, Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok announced that results of the Grade 10 placement exercise will be released on Friday, December 19. This follows the recent release of the Kenya Junior Secondary Education Assessment (KJSEA) results by Ogamba.
Bitok said the placement process, which matches learners to senior schools based on their KJSEA performance and preferences, will be completed by Friday. Learners can access their placement details by sending an SMS with their Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) assessment number to 22263.
Under the CBE system, Senior School students (Grades 10–12) will follow three main pathways: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM); Social Sciences; and Arts and Sports Science. The framework allows learners to specialise in fields such as engineering, business, humanities, fine arts, or sports, depending on their aptitude and interests.
