Education Officials Appeal to Parliament for Grade 4 Curriculum Changes

New proposals presented to Parliament could affect the subjects and learning pathways available to pupils.

Members of Parliament are considering proposals to formally recognise Arabic within Kenya’s education curriculum, with stakeholders in Garissa calling for the language to be introduced from Grade 4.

Education officials made the proposal during public consultations on six Education Reform Bills held at Garissa University and Fort Hall in Lamu County on September 30, raising concerns over gaps in the formal education system.

Garissa Sub-County Director of Education Rashid Mohammad proposed introducing Arabic at Grade 4 to allow learners to develop proficiency from an earlier stage.

“Arabic should be introduced at Grade 4 in our schools to give children an opportunity to master the language earlier in life,” he stated.

According to Garissa County Education Board Secretary Abdi Maalim, Arabic should be incorporated into the formal education system alongside existing learning pathways.

Source: Kenyans.co.ke