Kenya’s Engineers Group Protest Gov’t Move To Drop Math As A Mandatory Subject
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has challenged the government’s plan to remove Mathematics as a required subject from the Competency-Based Curriculum.
In a statement issued on Monday, March 17, IEK claimed that the contentious decision to make Mathematics optional in senior secondary schools posed issues for Kenya’s workforce and economic viability.
According to the engineering body, without a strong foundation in mathematics, students will struggle to develop the analytical abilities required for success in engineering and other technical fields.
“Mathematics, in particular, is the language of engineering and technology, underpinning design, optimisation, problem-solving, and data analysis in fields ranging from civil and electrical engineering to artificial intelligence and renewable energy,” the Institution of Engineers stated.
“We express deep concerns over the decision to remove Mathematics as a compulsory subject in the Arts and Sports Science and Social Sciences pathways,” IEK added.
IEK POSITION ON MATHEMATICS IN CBC SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS.
— The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (@TheIEK) March 17, 2025
READ THE FULL STATEMENT HERE: https://t.co/fI1P7Mmgbi pic.twitter.com/cODDMDRcxc
“While curriculum flexibility is valuable, this decision poses challenges that may impact Kenya’s workforce readiness and economic sustainability.”
IEK further stated that mathematics plays an important part in sectors such as business, economics, and social sciences and that without it, students may suffer in higher education and even when looking for work.
They also said that making Maths an optional subject will have major consequences for the country, causing Kenya to fall behind in industrialization.
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While criticizing the Ministry of Education’s decision, the engineering association encouraged the government to reconsider and instead implement practical Maths applications as an alternative.
“Students should receive clear guidance on the long-term implications of dropping Mathematics, ensuring informed decision-making,” IEK noted.
IEK’s current plea comes just a week after the Ministry of Education declared that mathematics will be optional for pupils graduating to senior secondary schools, marking one of the most significant reforms under the CBC.
Under the new system, students would be obliged to take English, Kiswahili, and Kenya Sign Language as necessary topics, as well as 38 other optional subjects.
Kenya’s Engineers Group Protest Gov’t Move To Drop Math As A Mandatory Subject
