Big Shift in Education: Math Dropped as Core Subject for Senior And Concentrate With This Subject
Education leaders in Kenya have reached a consensus that Mathematics will no longer be mandatory for students in senior secondary school. This decision was revealed during the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) Annual Symposium conducted in Nairobi.
Prof. Julius Nyabundi, KNEC Chairman, stated that students will develop adequate math skills by the conclusion of their junior secondary education. “By Grade 9, learners will have the arithmetic they need for everyday life,” he elaborated.
Statistics indicate that a majority of students excel in primary school Math examinations but face challenges in secondary education. In 2022, more than 80% of Class 8 candidates successfully passed Maths. However, merely 17. 46% performed well in KCSE, Kenya’s conclusive high school examination.
Andrew Otieno, KNEC Deputy Director, mentioned that poor outcomes are not attributable to the curriculum but rather to the manner in which Maths is assessed. He contends that making Maths optional will advantage students who are more skilled in the arts and humanities.
Instead of Maths, the Ministry of Education indicates that English, Kiswahili or Kenya Sign Language, Community Service Learning, and Physical Education will be mandatory subjects. These subjects are intended to cultivate responsible, healthy, and patriotic citizens.
Nonetheless, approximately 60% of students are still anticipated to pursue Maths in senior school, particularly those enrolled in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) track.
Experts from the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development also commended the new policy. They asserted that it fosters a more balanced education system that aligns with students’ strengths and interests.
This modification aspires to enhance academic success and alleviate stress, granting students the liberty to select subjects that correspond with their prospective careers.
