<![CDATA[This study highlights the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in improving critical and creative thinking skills through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR). Data were obtained from 59 Scopus-indexed articles published between 2015 and 2025, with 20 articles meeting relevance criteria for early childhood education (ECE) and secondary education levels worldwide. The data analysis protocol followed PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) to ensure systematic and transparent literature selection. The findings indicate that CBC has a significant positive impact on critical and creative thinking skills, especially when active and contextual learning strategies are implemented. Strategies such as project-based learning, inquiry-based learning, problem-solving in science, reflective writing, and local culture-based media have proven effective in stimulating higher-order cognition and student creativity. However, the effectiveness of CBC faces systemic and philosophical challenges, including unprepared teacher competency, a lack of valid assessment instruments, and the risk of material shallowing due to an excessive focus on procedural skills. Based on these findings, it is recommended that policymakers prioritize teacher training and strengthening authentic assessment, while researchers are advised to conduct longitudinal studies to assess the long-term impact of the CBC and develop standardized assessment models that can be widely applied in schools.]]>
