Stakeholders Express Concern Over Declining Mathematics Performance

The concern follows the results of last year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), where statistics from the Ministry of Education Kenya show that more than half of the candidates scored a D+ or below in the subject. According to John Mugo, Chief Executive Officer of Mizizi Elimu Afrika, about 50,000 candidates who sat the examination received an E grade in Mathematics.

Mugo attributed the challenge to weak foundations in early learning stages, particularly in pre-primary and lower primary levels. He noted that gaps in teacher preparedness and teaching approaches often limit the development of strong numeracy skills among young learners.

Speaking on Thursday during this year’s International Day of Mathematics celebrations at University of Embu, Mugo explained that learners who miss a solid grounding in mathematics during the foundational years often continue to struggle with the subject throughout their education.

He added that learners who cannot manage simple arithmetic operations in early grades later find it difficult to grasp more advanced topics such as algebra, eventually developing the perception that Mathematics is a difficult subject.

Mugo also cited research conducted by Usawa Agenda, which found that only about one-third of Grade Four pupils can successfully complete Grade Three mathematics assessments involving basic calculations such as addition, multiplication, and division.

Meanwhile, the Interim Chair of HERI Africa Research in Mathematics Education, Dr. Simon Karuku, said the organization plans to work closely with the Ministry of Education Kenya to strengthen the capacity of mathematics teachers in order to improve learning outcomes.

Karuku noted that research has shown many teachers still face challenges in effectively applying the learner-centred approaches recommended under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). He explained that the country has for years relied on teacher-centred teaching methods, and emphasized the need to shift towards approaches that actively engage learners in the learning process.

Also speaking during the event, Prof. Mike Kuria, Chief Executive Officer of the Commission for University Education (CUE), said teaching should make learning enjoyable for students. He observed that poor performance in some subjects often stems from teaching methods that discourage learners. Kuria emphasized the need to focus on nurturing students’ competencies rather than relying solely on memorization for examinations.

He added that learners are more likely to excel in subjects that spark their interest and curiosity.