Textbook shortages leave schools scrambling to support the first-ever Grade 10 cohort

As of February 2, 2026, secondary schools across Kenya are grappling with a severe shortage of learning materials for the pioneer Grade 10 class under the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC). 

Many schools report they have not yet received the approved textbooks from the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), forcing teachers to rely on digital downloads or old curriculum notes.

Beyond books, schools are struggling to equip Senior School labs and workshops required for the three new pathways: Arts and Sports Science, Social Sciences, and STEM.

Headteachers have voiced concerns that the Ministry of Education has delayed the release of capitation funds, leaving them unable to purchase supplementary materials or local teaching aids.

While the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) conducted training in late 2025, educators argue that teaching without physical guides makes implementing the practical-heavy Grade 10 syllabus nearly impossible. 

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba previously assured the public that distribution was underway, but school heads maintain that the “last mile” delivery to rural and sub-county schools has stalled.

By Anthony Solly