Kithure Kindiki Urges Teachers: Spare Gifted Students from Overload

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki Calls for Tailored Education to Nurture Talent

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has emphasized the importance of aligning education with students' natural talents, particularly for those with potential in sports and creative fields. He warned against overburdening young athletes with academic subjects that may not be relevant to their abilities.

Kindiki outlined several government reforms under the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC), which aim to create more personalized learning pathways. These include dedicated tracks for sports, arts, and the creative industries. The goal is to ensure that students can focus on areas where they excel, rather than being forced to study a broad range of subjects.

The government has also announced plans to revamp sports in the country. Initiatives such as specialized schools for athletes and creative professionals, along with stadium upgrades, are part of this effort. The vision is to transform sports from a form of entertainment into a viable and sustainable career path for talented Kenyans.

Addressing the Challenges Faced by Kenyan Athletes

Kindiki shared his reflections on the challenges faced by many Kenyan athletes during his school years. He noted that numerous young athletes possessed international-level skills but lacked the necessary support and infrastructure to develop their talents. As a result, many have not achieved success in life despite their abilities.

He expressed concern that Kenya's education system has traditionally placed a heavy emphasis on academics while undervaluing alternative paths such as sports or the creative industry. In contrast, he pointed out that first-world countries often produce successful and wealthy athletes who earn significant income through their talents. These individuals are among the most famous and influential people globally.

Kindiki argued that the current education system in Kenya promotes the false belief that academic success is the only route to achievement. This mindset, he said, risks undermining the potential of students with non-traditional talents.

Changes in the Competency Based Curriculum

Under the CBC, students will no longer be required to study all subjects after completing junior secondary school. Instead, the curriculum will allow them to focus on areas aligned with their gifts and future aspirations. One of the key pathways introduced is for students interested in sports, arts, and the creative industries.

Kindiki urged teachers to avoid wasting the time of young athletes by not forcing them to pursue irrelevant subjects. He encouraged educators to prepare these students early so they can start using their talents and earning income sooner.

Government Initiatives to Boost Sports Development

In addition to curriculum reforms, the government has launched several initiatives to elevate sports in Kenya. These include the establishment of specialized schools for sports and creative industries, the rehabilitation of national stadiums, and the construction of a 60,000-seater facility known as Talanta Sports City.

The government is also making efforts to host major continental events, such as the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 and the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). These events are expected to provide valuable exposure and opportunities for Kenyan athletes.

Recognition of Success in Sports

Kindiki’s remarks came in the wake of recent developments in Kenyan football. The national team, Harambee Stars, received substantial financial rewards following their performance in the CHAN tournament. President William Ruto awarded each player KSh 2.5 million, while former Prime Minister Raila Odinga contributed KSh 500,000 per player after their victory over Zambia in the final Group A match.

Ruto had previously given players KSh 1 million for each group game, but increased the reward for the decisive match against Zambia. He also pledged an additional KSh 1 million and an affordable housing unit for each player if they won their quarter-final match against Madagascar.

These gestures highlight the growing recognition of the value of sports in Kenya and the government’s commitment to supporting athletes who represent the nation on the global stage.