Ministry of Education launches Grade 9 textbooks distribution nationwide

The Ministry of Education has launched the nationwide distribution of textbooks for Grade 9 as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure a smooth transition for learners under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

The distribution, which commenced on Wednesday at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) offices in Nairobi, aims to equip junior secondary schools with vital learning resources.

Cabinet Secretary for Education Julius Migos Ogamba, emphasized the government’s commitment to the one-to-one textbook-to-learner ratio, ensuring each student has access to the necessary learning materials.

“The curriculum support materials we are distributing today are instrumental in fostering the development of knowledge, skills, and competencies that are vital for the future of our learners,” said Mr Ogamba.

This distribution marks the latest phase in an ongoing initiative that has seen textbooks provided for learners in Grades 1 through 8.

With the roll-out of Grade 9 textbooks, the Ministry said it aims to ensure learners progressing to junior secondary school are fully supported with updated and comprehensive resources in line with revised curriculum designs.

Mr Ogamba reaffirmed the government’s dedication to providing free and compulsory basic education as mandated by the Constitution, emphasizing the role of textbooks in improving learning outcomes. 

"Ensuring equitable access to quality education is at the heart of our efforts, and we remain focused on delivering curriculum support materials that meet both national and international educational standards,” he added.

The textbooks for Grade 9, along with materials for Grades 1 to 6 under the rationalised learning areas, will be distributed between October 25 and December 15, 2024, across the country.

This nationwide exercise will supply over 1 million textbooks for learners and more than 24,000 teachers' guides.

Principal Secretary for Basic Education Belio Kipsang called on school administrators to ensure accountability in handling the distributed resources, urging them to be present in schools to oversee the proper receipt and use of the textbooks. 

“Effective management of these materials is crucial to achieving their intended educational impact. Schools must ensure that the textbooks are well-maintained and utilised appropriately,” Dr Kipsang noted.

As the Ministry continues to implement the CBC, the nationwide textbook distribution represents a critical effort to provide learners with the tools necessary for success. 

CS Ogamba concluded the event by acknowledging the vital role played by key stakeholders, including the KICD, the Kenya Publishers Association, and educational institutions, in advancing the country's educational reforms.

“The successful execution of this distribution is a collaborative achievement and a reflection of our shared commitment to supporting Kenya’s learners and strengthening the education system,” he said.

The textbook distribution initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the quality of education in Kenya, equipping learners with the resources they need to excel in their academic pursuits and contributing to the long-term goals of the CBC reforms.