Lobby Group Accuses Govt of Neglecting Education Sector and Implementing Unrealistic Policies
In a scathing critique, the Elimu Bora Working Group, spearheaded by Boaz Waruku, has leveled accusations against the government, alleging a systematic rundown of the education sector through the implementation of impractical and unattainable policies.
Waruku highlighted the government’s hurried enactment of various policies, including the controversial payment of secondary school fees via the e-citizen platform, the Presidential Working Party on Education Reform (PWPER), a new funding model for public universities, integration of Junior Secondary School (JSS) within primary schools, and the hiring of JSS teachers on contractual terms. These policies, according to the group, pose significant threats to the education system’s stability.
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The group has called for immediate action from the government, urging measures such as ceasing conflicting policy announcements, establishing a National Education Fund to ensure universal access to basic and tertiary education, consolidating bursary funds to depoliticize education financing, and adopting a comprehensive approach to public education planning and implementation.
Waruku, addressing the media, criticized the lack of coherent strategies to address the myriad challenges facing the education system since the August 9, 2022 General Election. He lamented the apparent indifference of the current administration towards rectifying the deteriorating state of education in the country.
Scrutiny on E-Citizen Payment Plan
Of particular concern to the group is the government’s insistence on using the e-citizen platform for school fee payments, which they fear could lead to a major scandal. Waruku emphasized the potential for mismanagement and corruption associated with this approach.
President Ruto’s recent declaration mandating all school fee payments through e-Citizen was defended as a transparent and accountable measure during his state visit to Japan. The president cited the need to curb illegal levies imposed by some schools and ensure fair financial practices.
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Funding Challenges and Quality Concerns
Despite the allocation of significant funds to the education sector by Parliament, the group highlighted ongoing issues with fund disbursement, with a substantial portion remaining unpaid due to delays in processing.
Additionally, concerns were raised about the quality of education, as evidenced by a significant number of students scoring low grades in the KCSE exams, indicating a decline in educational standards.
The Elimu Bora Working Group is intensifying its advocacy efforts, demanding accountability, transparency, and proactive measures to address the systemic challenges plaguing the education sector.
They stress the importance of rigorous oversight and public engagement to ensure the effective implementation of educational policies and the delivery of quality education to all Kenyan children.
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Lobby Group Accuses Govt of Neglecting Education Sector and Implementing Unrealistic Policies