Gospel singer and former presidential candidate Reuben Kigame has raised concerns about Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), arguing that it leaves little space for people who thrive across multiple disciplines.

In a statement shared on X on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, Kigame said the education system does not adequately recognise or support learners and professionals whose strengths span multiple fields of study.

“CBC has no room for people like me who are comfortable in multiple fields and who cherish interdisciplinary thinking,” he wrote

Kigame used his own academic journey to illustrate what he sees as a gap in the system, outlining how his education spans several areas that are often treated as separate or unrelated. He suggested that such breadth is not easily accommodated or valued within the current curriculum framework.

“My undergrad is in education, my subjects are history, philosophy and religious studies. My MSc is in journalism and Media Studies,” Kigame stated

He went on to explain that his learning path did not stop there, noting that his studies continued into theology and advanced research, all of which have shaped his understanding of society and social justice.

“I have a near complete masters in apologetics. My PhD is in World Christianity, with my research being the intersection of music and social justice.” Kigame wrote

Kigame said this kind of background allows him to move easily between teaching, writing and research, a flexibility he believes is increasingly important in modern education and work environments. He argued that systems that reward narrow specialisation risk sidelining people who can connect ideas across fields.

“I can teach, write or research in any of these fields,” Kigame stated

According to Kigame, the value of interdisciplinary learning goes beyond technical skills. He said it helps people listen better, think more deeply, and approach problems with empathy and openness, qualities he feels are essential for both education and leadership.

“Besides teaching me how to do different things, interdisciplinarity has made me a better listener and thinker,” he wrote