CBC vs 8-4-4: Comparing Kenya’s Education Systems
Kenya’s education landscape is undergoing a transformation. Parents, educators, and policymakers are actively comparing the long-standing 8-4-4 system with the newer CBC (Competency-Based Curriculum). So, what’s the difference? And what does it mean for your child?
🔍 Key Structural Differences
- 8-4-4: 8 years primary → 4 years secondary → 4 years university
- CBC: 2 years pre-primary → 6 years primary → 3 years junior → 3 years senior → 3 years university
📊 Age Range Comparison
| Level | 8-4-4 System | CBC System |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Primary | — | Ages 4–5 (2 years) |
| Primary | Ages 6–13 (8 years) | Ages 6–11 (6 years) |
| Junior Secondary | Ages 14–15 (2 years) | Ages 12–14 (3 years) |
| Senior Secondary | Ages 16–18 (2 years) | Ages 15–17 (3 years) |
| University | Ages 19–22 (4 years) | Ages 18–20 (3 years) |
🎯 Learning Approach
8-4-4: Emphasizes memorization, academic grades, and national exams.
CBC: Promotes critical thinking, collaboration, and practical skills through continuous assessment.
✅ Pros and Cons
| Aspect | 8-4-4 | CBC |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Academic performance, standardized exams | Skills, values, real-world application |
| Assessment | KCPE/KCSE only | Continuous assessment + final exams |
| Flexibility | Rigid and uniform | Student-centered and adaptive |
| Teacher Workload | Moderate (standardized resources) | High (requires custom materials) |
| Practical Relevance | Limited | High – includes entrepreneurship, STEM, arts |
👩🏫 Elimuhub Can Help!
Whether your child is in CBC or 8-4-4, Elimuhub Education Consultants provides expert tutoring tailored to their curriculum.
- ✔️ CBC Learners: Competency skills, project coaching, portfolio help
- ✔️ 8-4-4 Students: Exam prep, mock tests, syllabus mastery
- ✔️ In-home or online support across all Nairobi estates
📲 Contact Us
- Phone: +254 731 838 387
- Email: elimuhubconsultant@gmail.com
- Location: 116 Muhoho Avenue, Nairobi
Let’s build a generation of learners ready for Kenya and the world!
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