Kenya introduces three senior school pathways — STEM, Arts and Sports, and Social Sciences — to align education with talent and career goals.
As Kenya prepares for the historic Grade Nine transition, the Ministry of Education has revealed that senior schools will now operate under three key career pathways: STEM, Arts and Sports, and Social Sciences.
This new structure, under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) framework, is designed to nurture learners’ unique abilities and align them with national development goals.
According to Basic Education PS Prof Julius Bitok, about 60% of public schools will offer STEM programs, supported by ongoing construction of new laboratories across counties.
“STEM remains central to Kenya’s economic transformation,” Bitok said. “However, learners passionate about the arts, sports, and social sciences will also have equal opportunities.”
Each school will offer at least two pathways, ensuring flexibility and inclusivity. Cluster One schools, with superior infrastructure, will provide all three.
Experts say the pathway system will prepare students for a competitive global job market while addressing Kenya’s skills gap in technology, innovation, and the creative economy.
The transition, set for January 2026, will be guided by digital placement tools and AI to ensure equity.
