This study explored strategies applied to cope with challenges inhibiting effective implementation of
basic education curriculum in Kenya. The study was framed by the constructivist theory.
Convenience sampling was used to select a sample of 205 primary and secondary school teachers
and employed mixed methods to collect and analyze data. It was found that despite the gains made
in accelerated enrollment in , and quality of education since the launch of free primary education
( FPE) and Free Day Secondary Education(FDSE) in Kenya at the national level, there still
remain pockets within Kenyan geographical regions which have remained behind in attaining
effective implementation of curriculum, resulting into low academic achievement. Among the key
challenges affecting effective implementation of basic education include: insufficient physical
facilities and instructional resources to cope with the exponential growth of student population
resulting from the abolition of school fees and introduction of FPE and FDSE; inadequate teachers
resulting in high teaching load prompting the use of ineffective teaching methods; Lack of
motivation of the teaching force resulting into insufficient focus on the learner and thus creating
little room for use of modern teaching techniques that require individualized teaching, amongst
others. As a result, the copping strategies employed both at the Ministry of Education level; school
level and teacher level have not been effective in ensuring the provision of equitable and quality
education. Given the fast approaching deadline of 2015 for meeting the internationally agreed
goals and commitments, the international development partners and other key education
stakeholders should come forward and generously support educational development , especially
the aspects that enhance effective implementation of basic education in Kenya, strictly in line with
national priorities. In doing so, Kenya will not only be on track towards the attainment of the
internationally agreed goals that appertain to education, but the attainment of quality EFA will be
within reach.