In a significant move, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has initiated a crackdown on schools charging illegal levies. Basic Education Principal Secretary Dr. Belio Kipsang’ has issued a circular directing county and sub-county education officials to ensure compliance with the gazetted school fees guidelines. The multi-agency approach aims to enforce structured fee ratios and safeguard Free and Compulsory Basic Education.
Quick Summary
- Ministry of Education launches a crackdown on schools charging illegal levies.
- Basic Education PS Dr. Belio Kipsang’ issues a circular to county and sub-county education officials, directing them to ensure compliance with gazetted school fees guidelines.
- The multi-agency approach emphasizes adherence to the authorized fee structure and the implementation of Free and Compulsory Basic Education.
- Schools required to fill fees declaration forms, signed by Sub-County Directors of Education, to be submitted to MoE headquarters by February 9, 2024.
- Primary and Junior Secondary School (JSS) are predominantly day schools; no fees should be charged.
- Prohibition on schools selling or stocking uniforms and boarding items; lunch programs for day secondary schools are optional.
- Education officials held liable for any breach within their jurisdiction; directive follows Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s warning against turning away JSS learners.
Ensuring Compliance and Structured Ratios
The circular, signed by PS Dr. Belio Kipsang’, emphasizes the need for county and sub-county education officials to enforce compliance with the authorized school fees structure. The structured ratios of 50:30:20 for the three terms respectively are highlighted as a crucial guideline. The multi-agency approach underscores the collective responsibility of education officials in ensuring adherence to the mandated fee framework and the successful implementation of Free and Compulsory Basic Education.
Accountability Measures and Deadline
To reinforce accountability, education officials are held liable for any breaches within their jurisdiction. Schools are mandated to fill fees declaration forms, countersigned by Sub-County Directors of Education, and submit them to MoE headquarters in Nairobi by February 9, 2024. This deadline reflects the urgency with which the Ministry aims to address the issue of illegal levies.
Specific Directives and Prohibitions
The circular reiterates that primary and Junior Secondary School (JSS) are predominantly day schools, emphasizing that no fees should be charged for these categories. Additionally, schools are explicitly prohibited from selling or stocking uniforms and boarding items. Lunch programs for day secondary schools are deemed optional, and no child should be denied schooling for failure to pay.
Vigilance Against Unauthorized Levies
In a proactive measure, the circular encourages education officials at various levels to report any School Principal, Board of Management, or Head Teacher charging unauthorized levies. This aligns with the Ministry’s commitment to curbing illegal levies and ensuring equitable access to education.
Deputy President’s Warning
The issuance of this circular follows Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s recent warning against teachers turning away Junior Secondary School (JSS) learners due to a lack of school uniforms. The Ministry’s directive serves as a reinforcement of the commitment to address financial barriers to education.
Final Thoughts
The Ministry’s crackdown on schools charging illegal levies underscores the commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible education system. By enforcing structured fee ratios, prohibiting unauthorized charges, and fostering accountability, the Ministry aims to eliminate financial barriers and promote Free and Compulsory Basic Education. The collaborative approach involving education officials at various levels is a crucial step toward ensuring compliance and fostering a conducive learning environment for all students.