Projection Models for selected Infrastructural Requirements for the Implementation of Competency Based Curriculum in Senior Secondary Schools in 2026, in Kenya.

Abstract

The new education system of 2-6-3-3-3 was launched in 2017 and named Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) which replaces the 8-4-4 system. The purpose of this study was to model projections of selected infrastructure requirements for the implementation of the CBC in Senior Secondary Schools. The study was guided by the rational comprehensive (Synoptic) planning theory propounded by Faludi and Needham (1993), which allows for the evaluation that consists of procedures such as cost benefit analysis, systems analysis, and forecasting (projection) research. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. All the primary and secondary schools in Kenya were the target population for the study. Collection of data was done by means of questionnaires, document analysis and direct observation. Infrastructural projection was arrived at through total projected enrolment for the year divided by learner number requirements for each based on the MOE policy. The study followed Thonstad’s Grade Transition Model for projecting the CBC enrolment trends of the 2017 Grade one cohort to Junior and eventually Senior School. This projected enrolment was used to calculate the selected infrastructural requirements. The study considered 2017 to 2021 enrolment data. The findings of this study indicated an increase in CBC enrolment over the years to 2026. The study further established that an increase in enrolment leads to an increase of physical infrastructure and average school size. The study concluded that there will be a shortage of selected projected infrastructure due to the projected increase in enrolment at Senior secondary levels by 2026. The study therefore recommended the need to expand the physical infrastructure. With the enrolment projections at Senior Secondary Schools in 2026, budgetary allocations will be much easier by the stake holders. Findings of this study would also inform policy makers including TSC and Ministry of Education to come up with practical policy reforms that would enhance provision of quality education in Vihiga County. This research can also guide Tertiary and University institutions for proper preparation when the learners graduate from Senior School.