The Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Kenya aims to equip learners with practical skills suited to their career aspirations. In senior school, students select pathways in Arts & Sports, Social Sciences, or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

However, a recent decision by the Ministry of Education to remove Mathematics as a compulsory subject in some CBC pathways has sparked widespread criticism. Stakeholders argue that sidelining Mathematics could hinder national progress and violate students’ rights to essential knowledge.

The Chevening Alumni Network Kenya (ChevKenya) and Commonwealth Scholarships Alumni Associations of Kenya (CSAAK), have jointly expressed their deep concern regarding the recent announcement by the Ministry of Education. The alumni associations, composed of highly skilled professionals in all fields encompassing areas of specialization in the proposed CBC system, stand ready to share their expertise with education policy makers. Their interest is to contribute to a more inclusive, strategic, and well-informed approach to education reforms that safeguards Kenya’s future.

Proponents of the argument

Proponents of the new policy argue that making mathematics compulsory may hinder specialization, as students could be forced to study subjects they find challenging or unrelated to their interests. Some believe that specialization should begin early to nurture talent in specific areas. Other concerns are that added academic pressure on students in non-STEM pathways could negatively impact their performance and motivation. Also that resistance from students who struggle with Mathematics could also lead to disengagement and low self-esteem.

The Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Education, in an interview with a local media station, justified this policy change by stating that the mathematics taught from Grade 4 to Grade 9 provides learners with foundational numeracy literacy.

According to him, students do not require advanced mathematical proficiency unless their chosen career paths specifically demand it. He also referenced previous Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination performance statistics, highlighting that 72% of students scored a grade D or below in mathematics, which significantly lowered their overall grades and limited their future educational and career opportunities.

These arguments are not convincing to me a higher education expert. Neither are they convincing to prominent international scholars in the auspices of ChevKenya and CSAAK.

Crucial Role of Mathematics in education and society

Mathematics is often regarded as the backbone of education, influencing various aspects of life beyond the classroom. From problem-solving to career development, financial literacy, and analytical thinking, mathematics plays a crucial role in shaping well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the modern world.

One of the most significant benefits of studying mathematics is its ability to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills which are CBC competencies. Mathematical reasoning helps individuals make informed decisions efficiently. Problem-solving skills gained through mathematics are invaluable, not only in academics but also in real-life situations, where logical analysis are required to navigate complex challenges.

Beyond its application in careers, mathematics is essential for financial literacy. In today’s world, where personal finance management is a key aspect of economic stability, understanding mathematical concepts such as budgeting, interest rates, and investment strategies is crucial. Mathematics equips individuals with the skills to make sound financial decisions, ensuring a secure future.

Extensive research has shown that mathematical education is strongly linked to several quality-of-life indicators, including higher educational attainment, socioeconomic mobility, valuable employment, mental and physical health, and financial stability. According to an article by the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Experimental Psychology at the University of Oxford, titled “The Impact of a Lack of Mathematical Education on Brain Development and Future Attainment,” the absence of mathematical learning negatively affects cognitive development and limits future career prospects.

Mathematics is often referred to as the language of the Gods because of its universality. It is essential in all career pathways, not just STEM and TVET fields. In the Arts & Sports pathway, athletes, musicians, and designers use mathematical concepts in statistics, measurements, and financial literacy. Similarly, in Social Sciences, mathematics is essential for data analysis, budgeting, and research methodologies, ensuring informed decision-making.

The importance of mathematics cannot be overstated. It is a subject that enhances intellectual growth, career success, financial awareness, and analytical thinking. As we advance in an increasingly technological world, a solid foundation in mathematics remains an essential tool for personal and professional development, ensuring individuals are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern life. A weak foundation in Mathematics may undermine entrepreneurship and innovation, as business owners and creatives require these skills to manage finances, contracts, and communication effectively.

Globaltrends in STEM education

Across the world, leading economies are increasing their investments in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to maintain their competitive edge. The United Kingdom, one of Kenya’s key partners in digital development, has significantly boosted its science and research budget. In 2023, the UK allocated an additional £854.7 million, including £260 million specifically for the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA). This is in addition to the £3.1 billion set aside in 2023 to promote STEM education.

The European Union (EU) has also demonstrated its commitment to STEM education through the Digital Europe Programme, investing €9.2 billion to align its long-term budget (2021-2027) with increasing digital demands. Similarly, in the United States, the federal government allocated $268 billion for education in the 2024 fiscal year, with substantial funding directed toward STEM programs, including the National Science Foundation’s STEM Education Directorate.

In China, investments in science and technology continue to grow. The central government dedicated CNY 371 billion (approximately $40.5 billion) to science and technology funding in 2024, marking a 10% increase from the previous year. These examples demonstrate that global leaders in technology and innovation are continuously prioritizing STEM education to maintain their economic and scientific dominance.

Kenya’s Vision 2030 blueprint, which seeks to transform the country into a middle-income economy, also prioritizes science and technology. The government has emphasized STEM education as a critical driver of economic growth and national competitiveness. If Kenya aspires to follow the path of these leading nations, she must align and actively encourage STEM education at all levels. The government’s commitment and assurance that all CBC senior schools will offer STEM pathway, is in line with the country’s strategic direction and is commendable.

Professional opinion

It is the position of ChevKenya and CSAAK and my personal opinion as a higher education expert, that the Ministry of Education should reconsider its decision and reinstate mathematics as a core subject across all senior school specialization pathways, alongside English or Kenya Sign Language, Kiswahili, Physical Education, and Community Service Learning. Instead of throwing out mathematics altogether for some CBC pathways, customized mathematics alternative aimed to impart the necessary numeracy skills relevant to the respective pathway could be developed. E.g. Mathematics for Arts and Sports and Mathematics for Social Sciences. These will be highly simplified versions of the hardcore mathematics for STEM.

Alternatively, for non-STEM pathways, mathematics could be taught with practical applications relevant to each career specialization. Instead of mathematics being a standalone subject, it can be integrated into specialized training, making them more engaging and useful. For example, Mathematics can be applied in music production, fashion design, and sports analytics. However, students struggling with the subject should receive targeted support, such as remedial classes and mentorship programs.

We call upon the government to convene a mega stakeholders’ forum comprising representatives from education, economic planning, and industry sectors, to review and align key policy decisions with international best practices and formulate strategic interventions for this great nation Kenya.

The Author is a Professor of Chemistry at University of Eldoret, a Commonwealth Scholar, a former Vice-Chancellor, and a Quality Assurance Expert. okothmdo@gmail.com