The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has protested against the government’s decision to remove Mathematics as a compulsory subject under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
In a statement on Monday, March 17, IEK stated that the controversial decision to make Mathematics optional for senior secondary schools posed challenges that could impact Kenya’s workforce and economic sustainability.
According to the engineering body, without a solid grounding in Maths, students will struggle to develop the analytical skills necessary for success in engineering and other technical professions.
“Mathematics, in particular, is the language of engineering and technology, underpinning design, optimisation, problem-solving, and data analysis in fields ranging from civil and electrical engineering to artificial intelligence and renewable energy,” the Institution of Engineers stated.
“We express deep concerns over the decision to remove Mathematics as a compulsory subject in the Arts and Sports Science and Social Sciences pathways. While curriculum flexibility is valuable, this decision poses challenges that may impact Kenya’s workforce readiness and economic sustainability,” IEK added.
IEK further noted that Mathematics plays a critical role in areas such as business, economics, and social sciences, and without it, students could struggle in higher education and even when seeking employment.
They also stated that making Maths an optional subject would have serious repercussions for the country, as it would cause Kenya to lag in industrialisation.
While lamenting the Ministry of Education’s decision, the engineering body urged the government to reconsider and instead introduce practical Maths applications as an alternative.
“Students should receive clear guidance on the long-term implications of dropping Mathematics, ensuring informed decision-making,” IEK noted.
The latest appeal by IEK comes barely a week after the Ministry of Education announced that mathematics would be optional for students transitioning to senior secondary schools, marking one of the most radical changes under the CBC.
Under the new system, students will be required to take English, Kiswahili, and Kenya Sign Language as mandatory subjects while making optional choices from a pool of 38 other subjects.
The latest move is a shift from the 8-4-4 system, which prioritised Mathematics as a mandatory subject alongside Kiswahili and English and allowed students to choose two science subjects to pursue.
