As the Ministry of Education rolls out the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) for students transitioning to Grade 10, a key adjustment is the elimination of Mathematics as a mandatory subject.
Unlike the previous 8-4-4 system, where students had to study Mathematics alongside English, Kiswahili, and at least two science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, or Biology), learners in senior school now have the option to drop Mathematics.
Under the new structure, all students in senior school must undertake four compulsory subjects: English, Kiswahili or Kenya Sign Language, Community Service Learning, and Physical Education.
Beyond these core subjects, students can choose three additional subjects based on their preferred academic pathway. The ministry has divided these pathways into three broad categories: Arts and Sports Science, Social Sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
The Arts and Sports Science pathway includes disciplines such as Music, Fine Arts, Dance, Theatre, Film, Physical Education, and Recreational Sports.
For those interested in Social Sciences, subjects available include Business Studies, History and Citizenship, Geography, Christian Religious Education (CRE), Islamic Religious Education (IRE), Hindu Religious Education (HRE), Community Service Learning (CSL), and various languages and literature courses.
The STEM pathway consists of subjects such as Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, General Science, and Applied Sciences, which cover fields like Agriculture, Computer Science, Home Science, and Technical Studies.
The Ministry has set a target for at least 60 percent of current Grade Nine students to enroll in the STEM pathway once they transition to senior school in January 2026.
According to Basic Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang, students will begin selecting their subjects in the second term to allow sufficient time for consideration and parental guidance during the first term.
“We are allowing them time to discuss their interests with their parents before making a decision. The selection process will commence as soon as they return to school,” Kipsang explained.
Additionally, the Ministry has suggested a policy to limit the number of students transitioning from the same junior secondary school to a particular senior school to a maximum of five.
This move aims to enhance diversity in school placements, though some education stakeholders believe it could pose challenges, especially for day schools that primarily serve students from nearby communities.
