The government has pledged to work closely with school heads and other education stakeholders to address challenges facing the rollout of Grade 10 and ensure a smooth transition under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system.
Basic Education Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa said the Ministry of Education is committed to finding practical and long-term solutions to issues affecting learning institutions across the country.
Speaking during the annual Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (KESSHA) conference in Mombasa Tuesday, Ololtuaa assured school administrators that the ministry would remain actively engaged in addressing concerns raised by schools.
"We are committed to working hand in hand with heads of institutions and all stakeholders in the education sector to ensure that challenges affecting learning are resolved promptly and effectively," Ololtuaa said.
The PS noted that the government has recruited thousands of teachers in recent years to strengthen learning outcomes and support the transition to the Competency-Based Education curriculum.
He said the ministry was collaborating closely with school management teams to develop strategies aimed at tackling emerging challenges, particularly as schools prepare for the implementation of Grade 10 pathways.
"The ministry will continue engaging stakeholders and providing the necessary support to schools. We are looking for sustainable solutions that will strengthen our education system for generations to come," he said.
Ololtuaa pledged to take a hands-on approach in resolving issues affecting schools, saying he would personally visit institutions and engage directly with teachers and learners.
"I will not lead from the office alone. I intend to visit schools, interact with students and teachers, and have direct conversations on the challenges they face so that we can respond appropriately," he said.
The PS appealed to school administrators to strengthen collaboration with the ministry, noting that successful implementation of reforms requires collective effort.
Describing teachers as the backbone of the education sector, Ololtuaa praised their dedication and contribution to shaping the country's future.
"Teachers are the engine of education. Their contribution to the growth and development of our nation is immeasurable," he said.
He explained that the Mombasa conference had provided an important platform for education leaders to share experiences, exchange ideas and generate practical proposals aimed at transforming the sector.
Ololtuaa also challenged schools to strengthen institutional management by adhering to established routines, improving performance standards, ensuring equitable distribution of resources and nurturing values among learners.
On student discipline, the PS reaffirmed the government's commitment to creating safe and orderly learning environments.
"We are working closely with security and investigative agencies to address emerging behavioural concerns among learners and to ensure schools remain safe spaces for every child," he said.
He urged all stakeholders to remain united in building an education system that promotes discipline, values and academic excellence.
"Together, we can create supportive, secure and
values-driven learning environments that enable every learner to achieve their
full potential," Ololtuaa said.
