Teachers in Nairobi Call for Reduced Workload Under CBC

Educators across Nairobi are urging the authorities to address the mounting workload brought about by the nationwide implementation of the Competency‑Based Curriculum (CBC). During a press conference in the city, representatives of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) highlighted that many teachers are experiencing burnout and stress as they grapple with the intensified demands of the new system—citing the need for fewer subjects per teacher, better class size management, and proportional improvements in pay.
According to union leadership, the increased workload stems from teachers handling larger class sizes, teaching multiple new subject areas, and managing more continuous assessments than under the previous system. One KNUT official noted that while the CBC is intended to promote skills like creativity and critical thinking, its implementation has placed undue strain on instructors who were not provided adequate additional support or staffing. Studies have shown that teachers feel overwhelmed by the pace and volume of change—citing heavy workloads, insufficient training, and a lack of resources as major hurdles.
Educators and observers have responded with both concern and calls for reform. Many teachers in Nairobi say the excessive workload is already affecting lesson quality and their health, with some reporting fatigue or dropping out of the profession prematurely. Parents and education stakeholders worry that persistent pressure on teachers may undermine the CBC’s broader goals of enhancing creativity and learner‑centered education. As a result, teacher unions are preparing to reopen negotiations with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the government ahead of the new Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Looking ahead, the conversation is expected to focus on actionable solutions such as hiring more teachers to reduce student‑teacher ratios, restricting non‑teaching duties, and ensuring support systems like counselling and refresher training are in place. Union leaders have signalled their intention to push for a 60 per cent pay rise, citing the added workload under CBC as justification. If addressed, Nairobi’s calls could lead to a more sustainable teaching environment and reinforce the CBC’s aim of delivering high‑quality, skills‑based education.