Classroom Preparations for Grade Nine Transition on Track, Says Ministry.
Julius Migos Ogamba, the Cabinet Secretary for Education has emphasized that the education sector is still undergoing a significant transition that began in 2012.
Speaking at a CBC Engagement forum, Ogamba highlighted the efforts being made to ensure a smooth continuation of this process, particularly as the government prepares for the Grade 9 transition in 2025.
He reassured stakeholders that the ministry is fully committed to resolving any challenges that may arise during this period of change.
Preparation for Grade Nine Transition
The Education CS provided an update on the progress of infrastructure development to accommodate the upcoming Grade nine transition.
He assured the public that construction of classrooms is progressing, with the ministry confident that by January 2025, they will be fully prepared.
Ogamba emphasized that the ministry is working closely with headteachers to ensure schools can handle any challenges that may emerge.
“We are working as a team to make sure that each aspect of this transition is well managed,” he stated.
The CBC Engagement conversation touched on concerns regarding the construction of classrooms, with the participant questioning why the Ministry of Education delegates such projects to the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) instead of handling them directly.
Some participants expressed worry that this could lead to challenges in accountability and hinder the effective use of resources.
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CS Ogamba emphasized that the government has taken all necessary measures to ensure learners are not disadvantaged.
The Ministry’s preparedness includes addressing stakeholder concerns, completing infrastructure projects, and providing essential resources. The focus remains on making the transition to CBC seamless and efficient by January 2025, with continued engagement and dialogue to resolve any outstanding issues.
Infrastructure Development for Junior Secondary
To accommodate learners under CBC, the government assessed infrastructure needs and determined that 16,000 new classrooms were required for junior secondary schools.
Ogamba reported that significant progress had been made, with 11,000 classrooms funded through development partners at a cost of Ksh 11 billion.
Another 6,800 classrooms were financed with Ksh 6.8 billion through the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF).
Construction began in August 2024, and by December, approximately 14,500 classrooms had been completed.
The remaining 2,000 classrooms are expected to be finalized by January 2025. Ogamba stated, “We are on track to ensure that all learners transitioning to junior secondary have adequate infrastructure in place.”
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According to Ogamba, 83% of Kenyans through the Presidential Working Party in 2023, chaired by Professor Mavu supported CBC, suggesting that the program should continue with modifications to enhance efficiency and acceptance.
Additionally, 93% of respondents advocated for junior secondary schools to be housed in primary schools. This decision was based on economic considerations, age appropriateness, and the psychosocial needs of learners in Grades 7, 8, and 9.
Classroom Preparations for Grade Nine Transition on Track, Says Ministry.
