Engineers oppose move to make Math optional in schools

A government's move to make Mathematics optional under the under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) has received strong opposition from Engineers in the country.

In a statement issued on Monday, March 17, the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) warned that making Mathematics optional at the senior secondary level could have far-reaching consequences.

The organization emphasized that a strong foundation in Mathematics is essential for nurturing analytical skills, which are crucial for success in engineering and other technical fields.

Without Mathematics, it says, students may face significant challenges in pursuing careers that drive innovation and national development.

Mathematics, in particular, is the language of engineering and technology, underpinning design, optimization, problem-solving, and data analysis in fields ranging from civil and electrical engineering to artificial intelligence and renewable energy,” IEK stated.

The IEK emphasized that Mathematics is essential in fields like business, economics, and social sciences.

They warned that without a strong foundation in the subject, students might face difficulties in higher education and even in securing jobs.

Additionally, they cautioned that removing Mathematics as a mandatory subject could have significant consequences for the country, potentially slowing down Kenya's progress in industrialization.

Expressing disappointment over the Ministry of Education’s decision, the engineering body urged the government to reconsider and instead integrate practical applications of mathematics as an alternative.

"Students should be well-informed about the long-term consequences of dropping Mathematics to ensure they make educated choices," the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) emphasized.

This latest appeal from IEK comes just days after the Ministry of Education announced a major policy shift, making mathematics optional for students progressing to senior secondary school.

The change will see students required to take English, Kiswahili, and Kenya Sign Language as core subjects while selecting from a pool of 38 other optional subjects.