Ambassador Julius Bitok Unveils Comprehensive Digital Transformation Plan to Revolutionize Kenya’s Education Sector
By Gladys Yator,
The Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Amb. Julius Bitok, has revealed an ambitious digital transformation agenda designed to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in Kenya’s education system.
During an extensive interview on Leene Emet aired on Kass FM, Amb. Bitok introduced key innovations such as the Maisha Card, a digital tool that will streamline school management and facilitate quicker, more transparent disbursement of capitation funds, the government’s financial support for free basic education.
“These initiatives are about ensuring every shilling is used wisely,” Amb. Bitok emphasized, explaining that digitizing fund management could reduce wastage by up to 10 percent, ensuring more resources reach learners directly.
Beyond financial reforms, Amb. Bitok addressed the critical transition from Junior Secondary to Senior Secondary, a vital step under the Competency Based Curriculum CBC. He highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to establishing a fair and transparent school selection process that places learners into Senior School Pathways whether STEM, Arts and Sports Science, or Social Sciences based on merit, interest, and capacity.
Infrastructure development, teacher training, and provision of learning materials are all being prioritized to support this transition with a focus on equitable access for all students.
Amb. Bitok also underscored the important role of parents and communities, noting that active parental support is essential for student success. The Ministry is working to strengthen governance structures in schools including digitizing Board of Management operations and improving data driven decision making.
Inclusive education remains a key focus with targeted efforts to bridge gaps for learners in marginalized areas and those with special needs, ensuring that technology benefits every child.
In conclusion, Amb. Bitok expressed strong confidence in the reform agenda, calling the digital transformation a “game changer” that will not only streamline administration but also profoundly improve educational outcomes for millions of Kenyan children.
