In an effort to bridge the educational gap, the Ministry of Education in Kenya has set a bold target of achieving a 100% transition of learners from primary to secondary schools in the Coast region by the upcoming week. While national data indicates an 87% transition rate as of Tuesday, the Coast region is currently lagging behind at 65%.
Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang, speaking during a meeting with officials from the Interior and Education ministries in Mombasa, emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing challenges faced by learners across the nation. Kipsang outlined plans for close collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Interior to ensure the seamless transition of all learners to the next academic level.
To tackle the existing gap, Kipsang urged leaders in the Coast region to intensify and regularize school visits, providing crucial support to teachers in curriculum delivery and assessment. The PS acknowledged the challenges faced in the education sector and revealed that the government has allocated a substantial budget of Sh650 billion, accounting for 30% of its resources this year, to the education sector.
“Today, the government is spending 30% of its resources in the education sector, amounting to Sh650 billion this year. We must be able to see a return,” stated Kipsang, emphasizing the government’s dedication to fostering a robust education system.
Addressing concerns about teenage pregnancies in the Coast region, Kipsang attributed the issue to cultural and economic factors. He pledged collaborative efforts to address these challenges, ensuring a conducive environment for the delivery of education.
Highlighting the importance of adherence to government policies, including fee guidelines, the PS cautioned against imposing additional levies on parents in junior schools. He emphasized that the government allocates Sh15,000 per child, and any form of incompetence, be it from teachers or other stakeholders, will not be tolerated.
On the contentious issue of bursaries, Kipsang advocated for a fair and unbiased approach, stating that children should not be disadvantaged based on their parents’ voting patterns. He announced plans to revamp the Jomo Kenyatta Foundation to coordinate bursaries effectively, preventing double-dipping and streamlining the process for timely awards.
TSC Coast regional director Juliet Karaoke echoed the commitment to supporting teachers and addressing staffing challenges, particularly in Lamu and Tana River. She assured that the portal remains open for qualified teachers to apply, emphasizing the importance of retaining and recruiting qualified educators to enhance the quality of education in the region.