INFRASTRUCTURAL CHALLENGES AFFECTING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETENCY-BASED EDUCATION IN PUBLIC JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KABETE SUB-COUNTY, KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA
Musili Elizabeth Mwinyui - Master of Education Management Student, The Presbyterian University of East Africa, Kenya
Wamichwe, J - School of education, The Presbyterian University of East Africa, Kenya
Kerubo, J - Master of Education Management Student, The Presbyterian University of East Africa, Kenya
ABSTRACT
The implementation of Competency-Based Education (CBE) in Kenya introduced Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) as an important component of the restructured basic education system. The reform emphasizes learner-centered instruction, practical learning, continuous assessment, creativity, collaboration, and the development of competencies required for effective participation in society. However, inadequate school infrastructure may constrain the effective implementation of these approaches. This study examined infrastructural challenges affecting the implementation of Competency-Based Education in public Junior Secondary Schools in Kabete Sub-County, Kiambu County, Kenya. The study was guided by Systems Theory and adopted a descriptive survey research design. The target population comprised head teachers, Junior Secondary School teachers, Grade 9 learners, and parents in public schools hosting Junior Secondary Schools. A sample of 338 respondents was selected, comprising 6 head teachers, 30 Junior Secondary School teachers, 290 Grade 9 learners, and 12 parents. The study employed questionnaires, semi-structured interview schedules, and a document analysis guide to collect quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS Version 26 through frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Of the 338 targeted respondents, 317 representing a response rate of 94%. The findings indicated that inadequate classrooms, overcrowding, insufficient science laboratories, limited ICT facilities, inadequate libraries and sanitation facilities, lack of workshops, and inadequate specialized learning spaces constrained effective implementation of CBE. These infrastructural challenges limited practical learning, learner participation, continuous assessment, digital learning, and effective curriculum delivery. The study concludes that adequate and appropriate infrastructure is essential for successful implementation of Competency-Based Education. The study recommends increased government funding for JSS infrastructure, accelerated construction and equipping of classrooms and laboratories, improvement of ICT infrastructure, and strengthened collaboration among government agencies, school Boards of Management, communities, and other education stakeholders.