Why Mathematics Should Remain Mandatory in Kenyan Schools

The Ministry of Education recently announced that mathematics will not be a compulsory subject for students transitioning to senior school as part of the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). This decision, in my opinion, is retrogressive and will weaken our nation in a number of ways. For this reason, let me explain to you why mathematics should be kept as a compulsory subject.

Mathematics is often known as the “universal language,” and hence, it plays an important role in shaping the foundation of our education system. It has evolved from the basic elements of counting, measuring, and describing shapes and objects to logical reasoning, quantitative calculation, and critical thinking, as well as problem-solving and making predictions about the natural world.

Making mathematics an optional subject in Kenya will have far more repercussions than benefits.

Firstly, mathematics enhances cognitive development. This means that it challenges students to think critically, analyze patterns, and approach problems methodically. These skills are essential since they are not limited to solving equations and calculating complex equations but extend to the everyday decisions we make.

Methods like maximization and minimization in the health sector are helpful in the research of microorganisms, pharmacology and drug administration, which gives us a clear path to equitable drug distribution. Moreover, mathematics cultivates resilience in our learners. Solving mathematical equations requires a lot of patience, adaptability, and trial and error.

It helps our younger generation to learn from their mistakes at an early age. Students develop a supple mindset that values accuracy, clarity, and evidence-based reasoning by engaging with mathematics.

Secondly, mathematics is the foundation that drives scientific and technological advancements. Mathematics, as stated earlier, is a “language of science.” It enables researchers to formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments and interpret results.

It, therefore, provides a common framework to express and share their findings, ensuring that scientific knowledge is universally understood. Throughout history, mathematical theories have played a role in scientific discoveries. Albert Einstein’s famous equation of E=MC2 revolutionized our understanding of energy and mass.

Having mathematics as a compulsory subject ensures that future generations have the knowledge and skills to build on discoveries made to push the boundaries of human innovation.

Thirdly, mathematics is intertwined with our daily lives. Managing finances require mathematical literacy. Topics like commercial arithmetic are applicable in taxation, budgeting, and foreign exchange.

Statistics and probability help individuals make cognizant decisions based on the data collected. In addition, mathematics is the backbone of numerous professions. Engineers and architects depend on calculus and physics to design infrastructure.

We equip students with the right tools they need to succeed in a wide range of careers, hence its positive contribution to society.

Lastly, mathematics plays a role in promoting equity and inclusion within the education system. Mastery in mathematics allows learners to have lucrative career opportunities particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. However, in Kenya, we face the challenge of disparities in accessing quality mathematics education, which eternalizes us from different social and economic backgrounds.

Having mathematics as a compulsory subject gives every Kenyan from various economic, social and cultural backgrounds a chance to make something of themselves.

In order to be competitive globally; we need mathematics as a cornerstone in our education system. It is an equalizer in our education system giving people from different socio-economic backgrounds a chance to succeed out of the abyss of poverty.

Our educators, policymakers, and developers of the CBC should carefully consider the long-term economic impacts of their decisions to avoid potential challenges that could affect our country for years to come. Let us allow our learners to evolve in the digital age because mathematics will only grow significantly, making it indispensable.