President Ruto has issued a directive to crack down on unauthorized school fees being charged by public schools. This comes as a response to reports of parents being unfairly burdened with extra levies.
The Basic Education Principal Secretary, Belio Kipsang, has issued a stern warning to Regional and County Directors of Education, stating that they will be held accountable for any public schools found to be charging parents additional fees.
Belio emphasized the importance of adhering to the authorized fee structure and implementing Free and Compulsory Basic Education. He stated, “Every Sub-County Director and County Director of Education will be held liable for any breach within their area of jurisdiction.” The Principal Secretary urged Directors of Education to use a multi-agency approach to ensure compliance with the authorized fees structure.
In a circular sent out to the Directors of Education, Belio stressed that all schools are required to fill out a fee declaration form, which must be approved by the Sub-County Director of Education and submitted to the Ministry Headquarters by February 9, 2024. He also highlighted that the lunch program for day secondary schools is optional and reiterated that no child should be denied schooling for failure to pay.
“Primary and Junior Schools are predominantly day schools and the Ministry caters for the requisite tuition requirements through Capitation; for the avoidance of doubt, no fees will be charged by Public Primary and Junior Schools,” Belio said.
Additionally, he emphasized that the Ministry has banned schools from selling or stocking uniforms and boarding items, and all institutions must comply with this directive. This crackdown aims to ensure fair and accessible education for all children in Kenya.
