The Question of the Standard English Model in the Achievement of Universal Primary Education in Kenya

Abstract

English and Kiswahili are the two key languages in Kenya. While Kiswahili is a national language, English is an official language and is actually the medium of instruction in Kenyan schools. The model of English used in Kenyan schools, even at the primary tier is claimed to be the British standard, particularly Received Pronunciation (RP) (Zuengler, 1982; Schmied, 1990, 1991; Kanyoro, 1991; Kioko and Muthwii 2001a, 2001b; 2002; 2004; Kembo-Sure, 2004). RP is the prestigious dialect that is spoken in the southern parts of Britain and it is used in the media and in the education system.