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Full List of Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) in Kalama Sub County: Everything You Need to Know

Katumani Junior Primary School

The implementation of Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Kenya has brought significant transformation to the education sector. Kalama Sub County, located in Machakos County, is no exception. This article delves into the landscape of JSS in Kalama, examining the schools, sponsorship structures, and the broader implications for education in the region.

A Snapshot of JSS in Kalama Sub County

Kalama Sub County boasts a diverse range of schools, predominantly public institutions with a few private ones. These schools serve as a critical foundation for the CBC system, which emphasizes practical skills, creativity, and holistic development. Below is a list of notable schools in Kalama Sub County categorized by sponsorship:

Public Junior Secondary Schools

  1. ABC Kanyongo Primary School
  2. Carmel Ndauni Primary School
  3. Ianzoni Primary School
  4. Iiani Primary School
  5. Iiyuni Primary School
  6. Ivutini Primary School
  7. Kaathi Primary School
  8. Kalama Primary School
  9. Kalanzoni Primary School
  10. Kamuthini Primary School
  11. Kamweleni Primary School
  12. Katanga Primary School
  13. Katumani Primary School
  14. Kavyuni Primary School
  15. Kiatuni Primary School
  16. Kikongooni Primary School
  17. Kikumbo Primary School
  18. Kilombo Primary School
  19. Kimutwa Primary School
  20. Kinoi Primary School
  21. Kisueni Primary School
  22. Kisyani Primary School
  23. Kititu Primary School
  24. Kitonyini Primary School
  25. Kiuu HGM Primary School
  26. Kivandini Primary School
  27. Kombuni Primary School
  28. Konza Primary School
  29. Kwakatheke Primary School
  30. Kwakavoo Primary School
  31. Kyaani ABC Primary School
  32. Kyakitove Primary School
  33. Kyamunyuu Primary School
  34. Kyamuthinza Primary School
  35. Kyandili Primary School
  36. Kyangala DEB Primary School
  37. Kyangala T/Ship Primary School
  38. Kyanzasu Primary School
  39. Kyaviti Primary School
  40. Love Primary School
  41. Makakoi Primary School
  42. Malili Primary School
  43. Mangauni Primary School
  44. Masaani Primary School
  45. Mbembani Primary School
  46. Mbondoni Primary School
  47. Mbuani Primary School
  48. Mbukuni Primary School

Private Junior Secondary Schools

  1. Archbishop Ndambuki Academy
  2. Katumani Junior Primary School

Understanding Sponsorship and Its Implications

Public schools dominate the JSS landscape in Kalama Sub County, highlighting the government’s significant role in education provision. These schools benefit from public funding, which covers infrastructure, teacher salaries, and curriculum implementation. However, challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, inadequate teaching materials, and insufficient teacher training remain prevalent.

Private schools, though fewer in number, play a vital role in offering alternatives to parents and guardians seeking smaller class sizes and personalized attention for their children. Archbishop Ndambuki Academy and Katumani Junior Primary School are notable examples of private institutions providing quality education in Kalama Sub County.

The Role of JSS in the Competency-Based Curriculum

The introduction of JSS under the CBC has redefined the education system in Kenya. Unlike the previous 8-4-4 system, CBC focuses on skill development, creativity, and innovation. Students in JSS (Grade 7 to Grade 9) engage in a wide array of subjects, including:

  • Mathematics
  • Science and Technology
  • Agriculture
  • Business Studies
  • Creative Arts
  • Social Studies

This curriculum aims to equip learners with skills necessary for the 21st-century job market while fostering their talents and interests.

Challenges in JSS Implementation

  1. Infrastructure Deficit: Many schools in Kalama Sub County face challenges in accommodating the increased number of students transitioning to JSS. Additional classrooms and laboratories are urgently needed.
  2. Teacher Training: The CBC requires teachers to adopt new teaching methodologies. However, a significant number of teachers have not received adequate training, affecting the quality of education.
  3. Learning Resources: Textbooks and other learning materials are often insufficient, forcing students to share resources and limiting effective learning.
  4. Funding Constraints: Despite government efforts, funding remains a major hurdle. Public schools, in particular, struggle to meet the demands of the new curriculum.

Opportunities for Growth

Despite these challenges, JSS in Kalama Sub County presents immense opportunities for growth and development:

  1. Community Involvement: Strengthening collaboration between schools, parents, and local communities can enhance resource mobilization and support for education.
  2. Private-Public Partnerships: Encouraging partnerships between private entities and public schools can bridge funding gaps and improve infrastructure.
  3. Digital Learning: Integrating technology in education can address the shortage of physical resources. Digital platforms and e-learning tools can supplement traditional teaching methods.
  4. Teacher Development Programs: Continuous professional development for teachers is crucial in aligning teaching practices with CBC requirements.

The Future of JSS in Kalama Sub County

The success of JSS in Kalama Sub County hinges on addressing the existing challenges and leveraging available opportunities. With strategic planning, stakeholder involvement, and adequate funding, the sub-county can become a model for CBC implementation in Kenya.

As the government and other stakeholders work towards enhancing the education sector, the hope is to see improved outcomes for learners in Kalama Sub County. This will not only contribute to the individual success of students but also drive the socio-economic development of the region.