KICD eyes aviation, marine science rollout in schools using simulators

The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) plans to introduce aviation and marine science in primary and secondary schools using computer-based simulators as part of its renewed push to implement the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

Officials said the rollout will be supported by the Education Resource Centre currently under construction at the institute’s headquarters on Murang’a Road.

The project, which had been stalled since 2011, resumed this year after KICD secured Treasury approval to reallocate Sh400 million from internal funds to complete the second phase of construction.

Chairperson Simon Gicharu said the centre will give curriculum developers space to experiment with new learning tools that allow early exposure to specialised fields without relying on expensive physical equipment.

“In the past, these two areas have been a preserve of a few institutions, but we want to ensure that our children, irrespective of where, can access these key areas,” said Gicharu.

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 “A school will no longer need to have a decommissioned aeroplane as a requirement to be allowed to offer aviation classes,” he added.

He explained that with simulation software, schools would only need a classroom and a computer system to offer lessons in aviation, marine science and fisheries.

“We will introduce aviation simulations in schools. We will do the same with marine sciences and other areas where we can use simulations to make learning interesting and fun,” Gicharu observed.

The centre, set to be partially operational by December, will also provide space for curriculum research, training and modelling of emerging subjects.

Chief Executive Charles Ong’ondo said the project aligns with preparations for the first cohort of Grade 10 learners under CBC in 2026.

“The ERC centre will be critical as the first batch of CBC learners will be going to Grade 10 in 2026. It is supposed to host critical resources that KICD needs to leverage so that we can guide the country in the implementation of the CBC,” said Ong’ondo.

Officials noted that the approach aims to level the field between urban and rural schools by using technology to bypass infrastructure challenges.

They also said the shift will support learners' exposure to diverse careers from an early age.