Kenyan architects oppose removal of mathematics as compulsory subject, cite negative impact on economy
The architects argue that eliminating Mathematics could have significant consequences for students' career readiness, especially in sectors crucial to Kenya's economic growth.
The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has opposed the Ministry of Education's recent decision to remove Mathematics as a compulsory subject in select senior school pathways under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
Announced on March 13, 2025, the move has drawn criticism from AAK, which argues that eliminating Mathematics could have significant consequences for students' career readiness, especially in sectors crucial to Kenya's economic growth, such as the Built Environment.
"While we acknowledge the concerns leading to this proposal, such as ongoing poor performance, we strongly maintain that Mathematics is a core and fundamental pillar of a holistic and comprehensive education," AAK said in a statement.
"Its exclusion will undoubtedly have significant repercussions on students' career preparedness and their transition into the workforce, particularly as professionals in the Built Environment."
AAK emphasized that Mathematics is not just an academic subject but a critical life skill.
The association pointed out that numeracy fosters essential problem-solving, analytical thinking, and decision-making abilities, which are needed across various professions, including Social Sciences and the Arts.
"Numeracy serves as a fundamental life skill, enabling individuals to interpret data, manage their finances effectively, and navigate an increasingly data-driven world, especially in this era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technological advancements," AAK stated.
According to AAK, the Built Environment sector, which includes Architecture, Engineering, Town Planning, and Construction, is heavily reliant on mathematical principles.
GDP contribution
The association pointed out that this industry contributes around 6% to Kenya's GDP and provides employment to over 220,000 people. With rapid urbanization projected to result in 50% of Kenya's population living in urban areas by 2030, AAK emphasized that the demand for skilled professionals to design, plan, and construct infrastructure will increase.
The removal of Mathematics from key academic pathways, AAK warned, could limit students' career flexibility, thereby reducing the number of skilled professionals in the sector.
"Eliminating Mathematics from key academic pathways could limit students' career flexibility, reducing their ability to thrive in a knowledge-based economy and meet the future demands of Built Environment professions," AAK said.
Additionally, AAK raised concerns that the exclusion of Mathematics would stifle innovation and hinder Kenya's ability to compete globally.
"Countries such as China, Japan, and South Africa continue to prioritise Mathematics, ensuring their students remain competitive in the global job market. Without a solid mathematical foundation, Kenya risks lagging behind in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, ultimately limiting opportunities for its future workforce," said the Association.
AAK has proposed several recommendations to ensure that students gain the necessary skills without sacrificing their educational options.
These include introducing Applied Mathematics for Social Sciences and Arts pathways, investing in teacher training to improve Mathematics instruction, and providing enhanced career guidance to help students make informed decisions about their academic paths.
AAK also called on the Ministry of Education to reconsider its decision and instead focus on reforms that enhance Mathematics education for all pathways.
The association believes that ensuring all students are mathematically literate will not only prepare them for a wide range of careers but also bolster Kenya's position in the global economy.
"The Ministry should focus on reforms that enhance Mathematics instruction for these pathways, rather than eliminating it. Ensuring that all students acquire mathematical literacy will safeguard the future of Kenya's workforce and enhance global economic competitiveness, " the Association concluded.
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