Alarm as 151,000 learners from first CBE cohort fail to complete junior school, KNEC data shows

Figures presented from the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) indicate that about 1.282 million learners were enrolled in Grade Four in 2019 as the pioneer CBE class, but only about 1.130 million sat the Grade Nine assessment for placement into senior school.

That leaves about 151,630 learners unaccounted for, raising fresh questions over dropouts and retention gaps in the rollout of the new curriculum.

The data further shows the dropout trend disproportionately affected boys, with nearly 100,000 male learners missing from the Grade Nine assessment, while about 52,000 girls also did not complete junior school.

The figures were shared during the third annual education assessment symposium convened by the Ministry of Education, KNEC and the Education Resource Centre.

However, Education CS Julius Ogamba disputed the figures, saying the government has been recording near 100 per cent transition.

KNEC did not give reasons for the apparent dropout numbers, though stakeholders have previously blamed the high cost of implementing CBE, including learning supplies, which parents and guardians often have to provide.

KNEC also raised concerns over performance trends, noting that while learners post strong results in the foundational stage at Grade Three, performance declines in upper primary and stagnates in junior school.

Meanwhile, Basic Education PS Julius Bitok defended CBE, saying the reforms would transform Kenya’s education system.

“We are keen with what is happening with CBE… it is the best system ever… it will transform our country,” Bitok said.

The ministry also said it is preparing for the next phase of assessment, including setting up 235 hubs in senior schools to support closer interaction with KNEC.

Away from retention issues, Ogamba issued a warning to school heads accused of charging fees and levies outside ministry directives, insisting tuition in secondary schools remains free and other charges must follow government guidelines.