Wamuzi News Ke
A storm of controversy has erupted as educators from across the country unite to fiercely oppose the Ministry of Education’s shocking proposal to strip Mathematics of its mandatory status in Junior Secondary School.
Gathering in Kajiado County for a high-stakes mathematics competition, outraged teachers blasted the ministry’s decision, demanding that math remain compulsory. They argue that this drastic shift in the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), aimed at easing the transition to Grade 10, will have disastrous consequences for students and the nation’s future workforce.
Unlike the previous 8-4-4 system, where mathematics was an essential subject, the new policy makes it optional—triggering heated backlash from education stakeholders. Furious teachers insist the decision was made without proper consultation and fails to recognize math’s crucial role in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
“Mathematics is embedded in everything—pure sciences, applied sciences, technical studies, and even everyday life. The Ministry’s decision to limit its relevance is completely misguided,” blasted Ignesious Simiyu, founder of the Mathematics Competition.
Educators warn that removing math from the core curriculum will cripple students’ ability to pursue careers in engineering, technology, and finance, arguing that the subject is the foundation of industrial and commercial success.
“Mathematics fuels creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. Without it, we risk producing a generation ill-equipped for the demands of the modern world,” warned David Kariuki, principal of Mrishaw School.
The high-stakes competition, featuring students from over 20 schools nationwide, offers winners a shot at international recognition, with upcoming contests in Dubai and the U.S.
Under the Ministry’s controversial Grade 10 curriculum, only English, Kiswahili/Kenya Sign Language, Community Service Learning, and Physical Education will remain compulsory, with math relegated to an optional status depending on a student’s chosen pathway.
The decision has sparked an uproar, with not only teachers but also engineers and industry experts condemning the move as a reckless gamble on Kenya’s future.
