Education CS George Magoha has empowered teachers to have more impact in the career direction of students in line with the Competency-Based-Curriculum (CBC).
Magoha wants teachers to monitor students and guide them on subject and career choices. Teachers will also encourage learners to embrace creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
The CS further introduced a tracking system where teachers will closely monitor the character and behaviour of students. Magoha believes the system will work towards curbing unrest in schools, especially after an upsurge in criminal activity in institutions.
Under the old system, the main role of teachers was imparting knowledge through the syllabus and ensuring that the curriculum is well covered.
Teachers were also tasked with drilling students to be prepared for sitting national exams. The task force which proposed the new curriculum said that most students ended up half-baked with little practical skills.
The new changes are based on the new curriculum demands where the focus has been shifted towards learner-centred education or putting emphasis on the growth of students. They are also aligned with creativity and digital learning.
To ensure that Magoha's directives are implemented, the CBC task force proposed a new model to monitor teachers evaluate those seeking Teachers Service Commission (TSC) employment.
Chairperson Fatuma Chege, on Tuesday, February 9, said that the teachers would have to improve their lifestyle and be good role models for students. The task force is seeking to reduce incidents of sexual relationships between teachers and students and also curb the drug menace in schools.
Under the new guidelines, teachers will be required to abstain from alcohol and drug abuse, other than presenting academic papers to justify their employment.
"We have recommended that good conduct will be part of the characteristics of a teacher, not only a certificate because we are developing a child to be ethical, hence the teacher must lead by example," Chege said
