‎The Ministry of Education has authorised the completion of the procurement process for Grade 11 textbooks, clearing a critical path for the rollout of learning materials ahead of the 2027 academic year.

‎In a formal communication to the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development CEO Charles Ong’ondo, Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok confirmed that the process, which had reached its final stage, should now be concluded in line with existing laws.

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‎“The purpose of this letter is to authorise you to complete the procurement process of Grade Eleven (11) textbooks based on the Constitution of Kenya, the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act No. 33 of 2015 and its regulations,” said Bitok.

‎The approval follows earlier communication indicating that the evaluation of bids had already been finalised, with only notification of successful and unsuccessful publishers pending.

‎The move is expected to fast-track preparedness for senior secondary learners under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which continues to transition into higher levels.

‎The Principal Secretary also referenced a directive issued by the Education Cabinet Secretary to the Kenya Publishers Association, underscoring the government’s commitment to a transparent and structured procurement process.

‎The move is now expected to unlock the final stage of awarding contracts and pave the way for immediate production and timely distribution of textbooks to schools across the country, ensuring learners and teachers have adequate materials in place ahead of the 2027 academic calendar.

‎Delays in previous phases of CBC implementation had raised concerns among teachers and parents over access to adequate learning materials.

‎Bitok further indicated that future textbook procurement will be guided by recommendations from the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms.

“Going forward, the Ministry will implement the recommendation of the Presidential Working Party on Education Report on procurement of textbooks,” he stated.

‎The new approach is expected to streamline acquisition processes, enhance accountability, and ensure value for money in the supply of instructional materials.

‎With the procurement now set for completion, attention shifts to distribution logistics to ensure that schools across the country receive the textbooks in time, avoiding last-minute disruptions and supporting a smooth transition for the pioneer Grade 11 cohort in 2027.