The elimination of mathematics as a required subject is one of the most prominent reforms being made to the Competency-
Based Curriculum (CBC) by the Ministry of Education as part of the shift to Grade 10.
In addition to English, Kiswahili, and at least two sciences (biology, chemistry, or physics), secondary school pupils had to study mathematics under the previous 8-4-4 curriculum.
However, senior high school students can now choose not to take mathematics at all under the new framework.
English, Kiswahili/Kenya Sign Language, Community Service Learning, and Physical Education are the four core subjects that all senior school students must take, regardless of the pathway they choose.
Additionally, from among the elective courses available in their chosen pathway, students will select three.
The three primary streams of these pathways are Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Arts and Sports Science, and Social Sciences.
- Fine arts, music and dance, theater and film, physical education, sports, and recreation are all included in arts and sports science.
Business studies, geography, history and citizenship, Christian religious education (CRE), Islamic religious education (IRE), Hindu religious education (HRE), community service learning (CSL), languages and literature, and geography are all included in the social sciences.
- STEM includes both applied and pure sciences, such as computer science, home science, biology, physics, and mathematics, as well as technical studies.
Additionally, starting in January 2026, the Ministry has set a goal for up to 60% of Grade 9 students to pursue STEM pathways in senior secondary school.
Belio Kipsang, the principal secretary for basic education, clarified that students will start choosing their favorite subjects in the second term, allowing them the first term to consider their options and speak with their parents.
“Before making a final decision when they return to school, we are giving families time to talk about their interests and future objectives,” Kipsang told The Standard.
Furthermore, the Ministry has suggested that no more than five students from each junior secondary school be permitted to enroll in the same senior school.
Although some critics contend that it could be difficult, especially for day schools that primarily serve students from their local communities, this policy is intended to encourage diversity in student placement.
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