During Prof George Magoha’s tenure as Kenya’s Education Cabinet Secretary, the sector underwent significant transformation marked by major reforms, infrastructure expansion and strengthened governance. One of his most defining achievements was steering the nationwide rollout of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). Under his leadership, thousands of new classrooms were constructed, teachers were retrained, and junior secondary school infrastructure was prepared, ensuring the system’s transition from 8-4-4 moved from policy to reality.
Magoha also advanced free and accessible education. Government capitation for public secondary schools was increased, easing the financial burden on families and allowing more learners to remain in school. Accessibility was further improved through major investments in learning materials, including achieving a near 1:1 textbook-to-learner ratio, distributing digital devices to primary schools, and providing desks and sanitary towels to support vulnerable groups.
His strict stance on exam integrity was widely recognised. Having previously served as KNEC chair, Magoha implemented tight security and monitoring measures that drastically reduced exam malpractice and helped restore public confidence in national assessments.
The sector also saw strengthened support for marginalized learners. Through scholarships, special-needs learning materials and targeted programmes in informal settlements, more disadvantaged children gained access to schooling. His crisis management during the COVID-19 disruption included reorganising the school calendar and supporting safe reopening.
However, his tenure faced challenges. Critics argued that his direct, hands-on management style sometimes amounted to micromanagement. The rapid pace of CBC implementation raised concerns about teacher preparedness and infrastructure gaps. Additionally, despite expanded access, disparities in quality between rural and urban schools persisted.
Overall, Prof Magoha’s era was defined by bold reforms, improved infrastructure, stronger exam integrity and expanded access. His legacy continues to shape the trajectory of Kenya’s education system.