Sen. Mwenda Gataya, CBS, MP (Tharaka Nithi) has raised concern over the situation facing Grade 10 learners across the country following their transition to senior secondary school under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

The Senator noted that the shift has exposed major challenges within the education sector, including financial constraints that have prevented some learners from reporting to school, inadequate capitation for senior secondary institutions, shortage of teachers and pressure on existing infrastructure, particularly in rural areas and Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).

He warned that the situation has caused anxiety among parents, learners and education stakeholders and could undermine equitable access to quality education as well as the effective implementation of the CBC.

Sen. Gataya asked the Standing Committee on Education to outline the measures being taken to support learners who have not reported to school due to financial difficulties and to ensure that access to education is not determined by socio-economic status.

He also requested clarification on the budgetary allocations for senior secondary schools for the 2025/2026 Financial Year, including whether there are plans to review capitation upwards to address shortages of learning materials, high admission costs and infrastructure needs.

The Senator further called for details on the strategies and interventions being implemented to ensure a smooth transition for Grade 10 learners into senior secondary schools.

Additionally, he urged the Committee to state the steps being taken to address the shortage of teachers in senior secondary schools and provide timelines for resolving the challenge.

He also asked for an update on the mechanisms being put in place to improve infrastructure in senior secondary schools, particularly in ASAL and rural areas, to accommodate the growing number of learners.