Education specialists have urged senior schools in Kenya to move beyond traditional academic models and embed global pathway guidance directly into the curriculum from an early stage.

The proposed reforms include early academic tracking that uses foundational benchmarks to spot learning gaps and align subject combinations well before final examinations.

Schools are also advised to develop student portfolios that translate strong domestic scores into competitive international university applications.

Organising on‑campus university fairs in partnership with global student‑placement agencies is another key recommendation, allowing families to meet university officials and discuss scholarships, visa requirements and internship opportunities face‑to‑face.

William Mwangi, senior school principal at Crawford International School, warned that thousands of graduates each year enter a domestic job market that cannot absorb them, underscoring the urgency of these reforms.

Analysts note that global universities now place greater emphasis on adaptive skills, independent thinking and demonstrated initiative, making portfolio development and early planning essential for Kenyan students.

The call for change comes amid persistent youth unemployment in Kenya, despite a national literacy rate exceeding 82%, highlighting the need for education that equips learners with practical capability beyond paper qualifications.