Nairobi, Kenya — The Kenya Kwanza government has unveiled sweeping reforms aimed at transforming the country’s education sector, focusing on access, equity, and quality across all learning levels. During the presentation of the 2025-26 budget on June 12, National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi outlined a comprehensive roadmap under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), emphasizing structural improvements and support for vulnerable learners. The reforms include clarification of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) framework, the launch of a centralized student data system, and a new student-centered financing model designed to ensure financial assistance reaches those who need it most.
Key initiatives announced include the rollout of the Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS), which consolidates student records from early childhood through higher education, enhancing planning, resource allocation, and policy formulation. In addition, 76,000 new teachers have been recruited to improve the teacher-student ratio, with particular focus on junior secondary schools. The government also allocated Sh702.7 billion to education, representing 28 percent of the total Sh4.29 trillion budget. This funding covers free primary education, junior school capitation, secondary education, teacher training on CBE, and infrastructure development for both basic and technical education institutions.
Reactions to the reforms have been largely positive, with educators and parents welcoming the emphasis on fairness, inclusion, and quality improvement. Analysts note that the student-centered funding approach and strengthened teacher recruitment could address long-standing challenges, including disparities in access and learning outcomes. However, CS Mbadi acknowledged fiscal realities, suggesting potential cost-sharing for examination fees among well-off households to ease government pressure. Looking ahead, the government plans to continue investing in infrastructure, scholarships, and TVET programs, signaling a commitment to building a resilient, equitable, and future-ready education system for all Kenyan learners.