Gov't pushes KICD to complete procurement of Grade 11 textbooks

The government has authorised the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) to finalise the procurement of textbooks for Grade 11 learners ahead of the 2027 academic year.

In a letter dated April 9, 2026, the Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius K. Bitok directed the institute to conclude the process, noting that it was already at an advanced stage.

“In your letter, you stated that the procurement process for Grade Eleven (11) textbooks was complete and that the only remaining stages were notification to the successful and unsuccessful bidders,” the letter reads in part.

“The purpose of this letter is to authorise you to complete the procurement process of Grade Eleven (11) textbooks based on the Constitution of Kenya, Public Procurement and Assets Disposal Act No. 33 of 2015 and its regulations.”

PS Bitok said the authorisation is anchored on the Constitution of Kenya and the Public Procurement and Assets Disposal Act No. 33 of 2015, alongside its regulations.

The communication was addressed to KICD Chief Executive Officer Charles O. Ong’ondo, following earlier correspondence between the institute and the Ministry.

At the same time, the Ministry indicated a policy shift in future textbook procurement, saying it will adopt recommendations from the Presidential Working Party on Education Report.

“Further, please note that going forward, the Ministry will implement the recommendation of the Presidential Working Party on Education Report (PWPER) on procurement of textbooks,” the letter added.

The move comes amid ongoing efforts to streamline textbook supply under the Competency-Based Education, with Grade 11 set to be part of the senior school level rollout.

Last week, the Ministry said that capitation funding for schools will be made available prior to the second term's reopening on April 27, 2026.

Bitok at the time said the release of funds is intended to guarantee seamless operations in schools throughout the nation, with funding and textbook distribution as the first priority, especially for students enrolled in Grade 10.