MPs present supportive legislation to integrate national values into the educational curriculum.
Members of Parliament (MPs), the Office of the Attorney General, and the Ministry of Education have endorsed a Bill aimed at integrating national values into the educational curriculum.
The various stakeholders referred to the Education Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024—sponsored by Suba South MP Caroli Omondi—as a transformative initiative that seeks to realize Article 10 of the Constitution, which will revolutionize the education sector once implemented.
MPs serving on the education committee, led by Tinderet MP Julius Melly, mentioned that the bill will provide essential reforms to foster a shared identity and responsibility among young Kenyans and to cultivate a future generation that is both values-oriented and economically empowered.
During the meeting, Omondi indicated that once the bill is passed, it should be obligatory for all civil servants in public service to complete a six-month course on the matter.
Omondi, who advocated for the bill, revealed that its execution will require Sh320 million from taxpayers, as per an assessment conducted by the Budget Committee.
Omondi clarified that the primary innovations in the Bill include the formal establishment of a subject area termed “nationhood science,” which integrates civic education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and citizenship responsibilities.
He expressed that the bill will significantly contribute to instilling values among Kenyans and learners once put into effect.
He stated: “Nationhood science implies we seek to instill what the framers of the Constitution envisioned, extending from lower education levels to tertiary education. ” “This pertains to Nationhood Science—the subject concerning the soul and heart of Kenya, which, if enacted, will set Kenya on the course to attain greatness. ”
Said Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo, who was the sessional chair: “I believe that should be implemented even at the secondary level. All civil servants and those in public service must undergo a six-month course, as the issue arises at the point of employment post-education. ”
Kibra MP Peter Orero, who endorsed the bill, nonetheless inquired about the cost implications should it be enacted.
He remarked: “I think the concept is very positive. Will there be formative or summative assessments for this? What are the cost implications, and will we need to retrain and reskill our teachers? ”
Narok Woman Representative Rebecca Tonkei characterized the bill as substantially progressive and one that will transform the education sector.
The Bill aims to revise four primary pieces of legislation—the Universities Act, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, the Basic Education Act, and the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) Act—in a bid that Caroli asserts will align the education sector with Article 10 of the Constitution.