‘An Education Mess’: Kalonzo Slams KJEA Results Amid Public Outcry
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, has warned that Kenya’s education system is in crisis, with current policies risking an uncertain future for an entire generation.
Speaking in Kiambu County on Saturday during an engagement with the Kikuyu Council of Elders, Kalonzo sharply criticised the government’s education reforms, describing the sector as “a complete mess.” He argued that the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the newly introduced grading system had made schools more confusing and financially inaccessible for many families.
Kalonzo particularly focused on the changes to the grading system, which moved from the traditional A-E scale to a new EE-AE format. He claimed this shift had caused unnecessary confusion and undermined the credibility of Kenyan qualifications.
While he did not reject the CBC outright, Kalonzo called for a national review to ensure that the curriculum adequately prepares graduates for the job market and global recognition. The Wiper leader also expressed concern over government funding for schools, alleging that capitation had been quietly reduced in advance of the new academic term starting in January.
He warned that this would make it even more difficult for children from low-income families to access education, particularly as rising fees exacerbate the financial pressures faced by households. Kalonzo accused Basic Education Principal Secretary Professor Julius Bitok of failing to disclose the extent of underfunding in public schools.
The event, which took place at the home of Kikuyu Council of Elders chairperson Wachira Kiago, attracted a large crowd of local residents. Kalonzo, accompanied by senior Wiper officials and MPs from Ukambani, also took part in a traditional dance with Kikuyu women.
The CBC, introduced to replace the 8-4-4 system, aims to prioritise skills and creativity over rote learning. However, critics argue that its implementation has been rushed, underfunded, and not aligned with international standards.
