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NEWS & CURRENT AFFAIRS

The Nairobian

New Basic Education PS takes over as sector faces critical transition

Education

By Mike Kihaki | Mar 26, 2025

Professor Julius Kibet Bitok has officially taken over as the new Principal Secretary for Basic Education.

Prof. Bitok takes over from outgoing PS Dr. Belio Kipsang, who has been reassigned to the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services at a time when the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) is entering a crucial transition phase.

During a handover meeting on Wednesday, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba welcomed the new PS, calling for his support in ensuring learners get quality education.

“The sector has full confidence in you. I look forward to your contribution to this industry to ensure we serve our students effectively and we will support you,” he said.

Dr. Kipsang, who has served in the education sector for 29 years, assured his successor of a solid foundation, particularly in overseeing the transition of junior school learners to senior school in January 2026.

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"I know him; he can deliver the remaining section of Competency-Based Education (CBE). I express my confidence in Prof. Bitok’s ability to manage the system’s final phases," Dr. Kipsang said.

Dr. Kipsang, now heading Immigration and Citizen Services, humorously invited his colleagues to visit him at his new station.

"You can come to Nyayo House for your ID cards and other travel documents," he said, reflecting on his decade-long service as PS in the Ministry of Education.

The transition comes amid ongoing debates about the implementation of CBC and the government’s higher education funding model, which was recently ruled unconstitutional by the High Court.

As Prof. Bitok assumes office, he inherits a system that still faces challenges, including public concerns over CBC implementation, teacher preparedness, and school infrastructure.