7 Key Principles of CBC in Kenya: A Guide to Competency-Based Education
KenyaHowTo Team
February 15, 2025

1. Competency
The CBC focuses on equipping learners with the ability to apply knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes to solve real-life problems. It emphasizes practical skills over rote memorization, ensuring learners can effectively use what they learn in everyday situations.
2. Values
The curriculum aims to instill moral and ethical values in learners, such as integrity, respect, responsibility, and patriotism. These values are integrated into the learning process to help students become responsible and ethical citizens.
3. Learner-Centeredness
The CBC places the learner at the center of the education process. It recognizes the unique abilities, interests, and needs of each child, allowing them to learn at their own pace and in ways that suit their individual learning styles.
4. Inclusivity
The curriculum is designed to cater to the diverse needs of all learners, including those with disabilities, special needs, or from marginalized communities. It ensures that every child has equal access to quality education and opportunities to succeed.
5. Flexibility
The CBC allows for adaptability in teaching and learning methods to accommodate different learning environments, resources, and contexts. It encourages creativity and innovation in delivering the curriculum to meet the needs of diverse learners.
6. Integration
The curriculum promotes the integration of knowledge across subjects, enabling learners to see the connections between different disciplines. This holistic approach helps students develop a well-rounded understanding of the world.
7. Community Service Learning
The CBC emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community. Learners are encouraged to participate in community service projects, fostering a sense of responsibility, empathy, and civic engagement.
These principles collectively ensure that the CBC not only imparts academic knowledge but also nurtures well-rounded individuals who are equipped with the skills, values, and attitudes needed to thrive in a dynamic and interconnected world.