NAIROBI, KENYA – February 3rd, 2024: In a stern message to regional and county education directors, Principal Secretary for Education, Dr. Belo R. Kipsang, has issued a strong directive to public schools to immediately cease charging unauthorized levies.
This move aims to ensure the full implementation of Free and Compulsory Basic Education (FCBE) as enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution.
“The Constitution is clear – every child deserves access to free and quality education,” Dr. Kipsang emphasized.
“Unfortunately, reports have emerged of public schools, including primary, junior, and secondary institutions, charging unauthorized fees, negating the very purpose of FCBE.”
The statement outlines several key measures. All schools are prohibited from demanding any payments beyond the authorized fees guidelines.
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Primary and junior schools, being predominantly day schools, will receive full tuition funding through government capitation, eliminating any justification for additional fees.
Reiterating a previous circular, Dr. Kipsang reiterated the ban on schools selling or stocking uniforms and boarding items.
Secondary schools must strictly comply with the gazetted fee structure, payable in installments across the three terms.
No child should be denied education due to inability to pay for the optional lunch program in day secondary schools.
Regional, county, and sub-county directors are tasked with identifying and reporting schools defying the regulations. A multi-agency approach will be employed to ensure enforcement.
All schools must submit signed fee declaration forms to the Ministry by February 9th, with both hard copies and electronic submissions required. Sub-county and county directors will be held personally liable for any breaches within their jurisdictions.
“This is not just a directive, it’s a call to action,” Dr. Kipsang concluded.
“We have a collective responsibility to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to access quality education without facing financial barriers. This is vital for the future of our nation.”
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