Local Languages Education in Kenya: Breakthroughs and Challenges

Abstract

Since independence in 1963, the Kenyan local languages have played a critical role in the education system of the country, especially in rural schools. This paper discusses the role played by these languages in education. In some linguistically homogenous schools, these languages are taught as subjects and are used as languages of instruction in grades 1-3. The paper also discusses the challenges facing local languages in Kenyan schools. These challenges include a lack of implementation of national education language policy and a lack of language, literacy, and education materials.