Magoha Apologizes For Abrupt Closure of Schools
George Magoha, Cabinet Secretary for Education, has apologized for the sudden closure of schools.
The unexpected closure of schools on August 2, 2022, tossed the education system into confusion as parents scrambled to get their children safely home.
“I know that people are very unhappy that the schools were closed abruptly. Let me apologise on behalf of the government,” Magoha said.
Some students were left stranded since their parents were late taking them home, and earlier transportation arrangements made by schools were curtailed.
The CS, on the other hand, defended the decision to close the schools, claiming that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission needed to be given everything it needed to prepare for the elections.
Every election year, the majority of public schools are used as polling and tallying stations.
“So, the small pain that I have caused you, I take full responsibility because I’m the one who was supposed to say it,” Magoha said.
Magoha issued the order on Monday and directed schools to send students home by noon on Tuesday.
He stated that after the elections, the students should resume their studies on August 11.
“The Country is scheduled to conduct the general election on the 9th of August 2022. I hereby convey the Government’s decision on the immediate closure of all basic learning institutions with effect from Tuesday 2nd August 2022, until Wednesday 10th August 2022 to ensure that preparations and conduct of the upcoming election is carried out seamlessly,” stated Magoha.
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Magoha was clear, however, that if a repeat election is required, the dates may be revised. He also stated that the national exam calendar might be affected.
Parents and the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers, Kuppet, were quick to criticize the decision.
Secretary general Akello Misori stated that they were never consulted and that the directive for schools to reopen two days after elections were incorrect.
Teachers were also upset by the news, because continuous assessment tests were still being administered in some schools.
The Kenya Certificate of Primary Education and Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education are scheduled for November 28 and December 23, respectively, for the 2022 academic year.
The Grade Six examination will be held between November 28 and 30, with 1.27 million candidates registered to take the first exam under the new curriculum, which will see them enter junior secondary schools.
Magoha Apologizes For Abrupt Closure of Schools
