Former Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology Vice Chancellor Ratemo Michieka has challenged Kenya Institute of Education (K.I.E) to consider changing the current education system, saying it only focuses on preparing learners for white collar jobs.
Michieka said subjecting secondary school students to many subjects contributes to losing of focus among the learners and urged K.I.E to allow students choose career subjects of their choice.
He also proposed the introduction of talent nurturing centers that could allow children to pursue their talent which is not in line with academics.
“I think our current education system focus on preparing students for white collar jobs. We subject our children to many subjects while in secondary schools and this confuses them in choosing careers," Said Michieka.
"They should be allowed to choose at most two subjects so that they specialize in them. The country also needs to come up with talent nurturing centers to help nature gifted children,” he added.
He called for more emphasis in practical part of the study and blamed institutions for stressing on the theoretical side of the education system.
“Many of our children are only taught the theoretical part of the subject and little emphasis is given to the practical part and its application," Said Michieka.
"This makes us produce under quality graduates who cannot fit the current market dynamics,” he added.
Michieka also faulted the mode of delivery in institutions of higher learning questioning use of handouts by lecturers.
“I have always maintained that our education system is a mess and that is also manifested in institutions of higher learning. Our lecturers have now turned to use of handouts as a mode of delivery," said the Professor.
"Research is given a little input and this is why we want to see those in charge of curriculum work with other professionals to devise new techniques for improving our education system,” he added.
He was speaking during the final day of Kisii Entrepreneurship summit which ended on Saturday.