Kenya Primary School Heads Association (KEPSHA) has called on the government to support school heads in the implementation of the Competency Based Curriculum.

This is even as the association pledged support in the implementation of the CBC, noting it will work with the government to address the challenges school heads face.

Speaking during his official assumption of office, the newly elected KEPSHA Chairman, Fuad Ali, said the association will advocate for necessary reforms to make CBC effective and beneficial to all learners.

Further, Ali said he will engage the Ministry of Education, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), and other education stakeholders to ensure school heads receive the support they need.

“The success of CBC depends on adequate resources, well-trained teachers, and responsive policies. We will push for better resource allocation and support systems to ease the burden on school administrators and ensure that learning institutions are fully equipped to implement the curriculum effectively,” he said during the swearing-in ceremony.

Ali, who formerly served as the Vice chairman, takes over as substantive chairman. This is after the former chairman Johnson Nzioka, passed on in a road accident in February.

Also elected in other posts within the association is Meshack Roche, who will now serve as the Vice National Chairman.

Hussein Yussuf is the new Deputy National Treasurer, while Nicodemus Musyoka is the publicity and Organising Secretary.

David Makimei is now the Deputy Publicity and Organising Secretary.

Others officials are James Osikedi and David Radiala, both of whom will serve as members of the National Executive Board.

Ali also pledged to push for better terms and pay for the school heads.

He further called for continuous teacher training programs to equip educators with the necessary skills to deliver CBC effectively, urging the government to invest in refresher courses for teachers and school administrators.

Ali said the association under his leadership will first commence the implementation of its 2024-2028 Strategic Plan.

The plan aims to enhance governance, leadership, and advocacy for inclusive, equitable, and quality education.

“This journey cannot be walked alone. It requires the collective strength, wisdom, and participation of all KEPSHA members, our education partners, and stakeholders. Together, we can bring positive and lasting change to the education sector,” he said.

Ali said he will prioritize the welfare of school heads, recognizing the critical role they play in shaping the education sector.

“Our role as school heads goes beyond administration; we are nation builders. However, the challenges we face daily cannot be ignored,” he said.

The Chairman assured school heads that KEPSHA would continue pushing for policies that promote career growth, fair remuneration, and better working conditions. 

He also highlighted the importance of mental health and well-being, promising to introduce wellness programs to support school administrators.

“The demands of our profession can be overwhelming, and as an Association, we will champion initiatives that provide support systems and wellness programs for school leaders,” he said.