Kenyan parents can expect a fair and affordable senior school fees structure for Grade 10–12 learners under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
The Ministry of Education is working to ease financial worries among parents as the 2026 senior school transition approaches. Director of Secondary Education, Dr. William Sugut, confirmed that a review team is developing an affordable fees structure for senior schools across Kenya.
Under the new CBC system, senior schools will operate under three pathways—STEM, Social Sciences, and Arts & Sports—allowing learners to pursue their individual talents and strengths. The new system replaces the old 8-4-4 model and requires significant funding adjustments to match pathway costs.
Dr. Sugut assured parents that the new fees will be “reasonable and pathway-specific.” Schools are now grouped under four clusters, from C1 to C4, instead of national and county rankings. Each cluster will have a customized cost framework.
While parents raised fears about hidden costs, the ministry clarified that CBE learning materials are already funded through government capitation. The revised structure will not only reduce financial pressure but also promote equity in access to senior school education nationwide.
