The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is considering introducing ethics and integrity as subjects in the Kenyan education system as an initial step towards curbing the spread of corruption across generations.
The EACC has commenced discussions with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) to explore innovative strategies for incorporating these subjects into the Competency-Based Curriculum. EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud discussed the initiative with his KICD counterpart, Charles Ong’ondo. The initiative aims to nurture an incorruptible generation by instilling ethical values from an early age.
“This initiative is part of the Commission’s broader commitment to combat corruption and unethical conduct by targeting the formative years of youth development, recognising that the early instilling of values profoundly shapes character,” Mohamud stated.
During the meeting, the leaders underscored the importance of value-based education as a formidable tool against corruption and moral decay in society. By integrating ethics and integrity into the curriculum, Mohamud said Kenya could empower its youth with essential knowledge and values necessary for ethical living, enabling them to navigate contemporary challenges and resist the temptations of corruption.
Ong’ondo and Mohamud committed to strengthening collaboration between the EACC and KICD to pursue comprehensive value-based education in Kenyan schools, aiming to inspire students to uphold integrity.
The two agencies will explore various initiatives, including conducting studies on the state of ethics education in schools, reviewing the curriculum, and developing integrity materials tailored to different learning stages.
Last week, while releasing its annual report, the EACC indicated that it had received and processed 5,171 reports during the 2023/24 financial year, of which 2,207 fell within its mandate. The anti-graft body stated that of the 2,207 reports, 42 per cent were recommended for investigation over bribery, while 13 per cent were related to the embezzlement and misappropriation of public funds.
EACC Chairman David Oginde noted that corruption posed a significant threat to good governance, depriving citizens of justice and essential government services. “We call upon the public to discharge their civic responsibilities and support anti-corruption initiatives. Do not engage in or encourage corruption. Families should refuse to be complicit in corrupt dealings and instead play their role in shaping morality in society,” he urged.
Oginde also called on Parliament to strengthen existing legislation to enhance anti-corruption measures.
“We urge Parliament to support the Anti-Corruption (Amendment) Bill 2025 to address gaps and weaknesses in existing laws,” he added.
