Universities Given Deadline to Shift to Competency-Based Learning Before 2029 CBC Intake

Kenyan universities have been given until the end of this year to fully adopt a new competency-based education framework as the country prepares for a major transition in higher learning. 

The move is part of wider government plans to receive the first group of students under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), who are expected to join universities in 2029.

The new framework is being developed by the Ministry of Education Kenya in partnership with the Commission for University Education (CUE). 

Officials say the process is at an advanced stage, with experts working to ensure universities are ready for the shift.

Principal Secretary for Higher Education Carol Hunja confirmed that a special team has been set up to handle the task.

She explained that the group is focused on creating a system that will match the needs of CBC learners, who are trained differently from those who went through the 8-4-4 system.

According to Hunja, the new framework will guide universities on how to design their academic programmes, train lecturers, and assess students.

This marks a significant change from the traditional model, which has mainly focused on theory and memorisation.

Under the competency-based approach, the emphasis will be on practical skills, critical thinking, and real-world application of knowledge.

Students will be expected to demonstrate what they can do, rather than just what they can remember from books.

“This is a major shift for our universities,” Hunja said. “We are moving from a system that is heavily based on content to one that focuses on skills and abilities.”

Universities will now be required to review their courses and align them with the new system.

This means redesigning programmes to include more practical learning, internships, and hands-on experience.

Lecturers will also need retraining to adapt to new teaching methods that support student participation and problem-solving.

The government believes the change will better prepare graduates for the job market.

For years, employers have raised concerns that many graduates lack practical skills despite having strong academic qualifications. The new model aims to bridge that gap.

At the same time, education stakeholders have welcomed the move but warned that the transition must be handled carefully.

They say universities will need enough time, resources, and support to implement the changes effectively.

Some have also pointed out that infrastructure, funding, and staff training will play a key role in determining whether the shift succeeds.

Without proper preparation, there are fears that institutions may struggle to meet the new requirements.

The deadline set for the end of the year is meant to push universities to act quickly and avoid last-minute challenges before the first CBC group arrives.

Officials say regular updates will be provided as the framework is finalised and rolled out.