NATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF EDUCATION IN KENYA

NATIONAL GOALS OF EDUCATION (December 2007)

Education in Kenya should:

1. Foster nationalism, patriotism and promote national unity

Kenya's people belong to different communities, races and religions, but these differences need not divide them. They must be able to live and interact as Kenyans. It is a paramount duty of education to help the youth acquire this sense of nationhood by removing conflicts and by promoting positive attitudes of mutual respect, which enable them to live together in harmony, and foster patriotism in order to make a positive contribution to the life of the nation.

2. Promote social, economical, technological and industrial needs for national development

Education should prepare the youth of the country to play an effective and productive role in the life of the nation.

a) Social Needs

Education in Kenya must prepare children for the changes in attitudes and relationships , which are necessary for the smooth progress of a rapidly developing economy. There is bound to be a silent social revolution following in the wake of rapid modernization. Education should assist our youth to adapt to this change.

b) Economic Needs

Education in Kenya should produce citizens with skills, knowledge, expertise and personal qualities that are required to support a growing economy. Kenya is building up a modem and independent economy, which is need of adequate domestic manpower.

c) Technological and Industrial Needs

Education in Kenya should provide the learners with the necessary skills and attitudes for industrial development. Kenya recognises the rapid industrial and technological changes taking place, especially in the developed world.

We can only be part of this development if our education system deliberately focused on knowledge, skills and attitudes that will prepare the youth for these changing global trends.

3. Promote individual development and self- fulfillment

Education should provide opportunities for the fullest development of individual talents and personality. It should assist children to develop their potential, interests and abilities. A vital aspect of individual development is character building.

4. Promote sound moral and religious values

Education should provide for the development of knowledge, skills and attitudes that will enhance acquisition of sound moral values and help children to grow up into self-disciplined, self-reliant and integrated citizens.

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5. Promote social equality and responsibility

Education should promote social equality and foster a sense of social responsibility within an education system which provides equal educational opportunities for all. It should give all children varied and challenging opportunities for collective and corporate social services irrespective of gender, ability or geographical environment.

6. Promote respect for and development of Kenya's rich and varied cultures

Education should instil in the youth of Kenya an understanding of past and present cultures and their valid place in contemporary society. The children should be able to blend the best of traditional values with the changed requirements that follow rapid development in order to build a stable and modem society.

7. Promote international consciousness and foster positive attitudes towards other nations

Kenya is part of the international community. It is a part of the complicated and interdependent network of peoples and nations. Education should therefore lead the youth of the country to accept membership in this international community with all the obligations, responsibilities, rights and benefits that this membership entails.

8. Promote positive attitudes towards good health and environmental protection

Education should inculcate in the youth the value of good health in order to avoid indulging in activities that will lead to physical or mental ill health. It should foster positive attitudes towards environmental development and conservation. It should lead the youth to appreciate the need for a healthy environment.