Ministry Puts Principals and Directors on Notice Over School Fees
Basic Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang has emphasized the Ministry’s stance on public schools charging unauthorized levies.
In a circular sent out on Friday to the Directors of Education, he urged them to report any instances of School Principals, Board of Management, or Head Teachers imposing unapproved fees.
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The circular stated that both Sub-County and County Directors of Education would be held accountable for any breaches within their jurisdictions.
The PS highlighted the need for a multi-agency approach to enforce the approved fees structure and ensure the implementation of Free and Compulsory Basic Education.
Belio stressed the importance of all schools completing a fee declaration form, duly countersigned by the Sub-County Director of Education.
The deadline for submitting both hard and soft copies of these forms to the Ministry Headquarters is February 9, 2024. Soft copies can be sent to directorsecondary@education.go.ke, with the sample format provided via email.
Belio underscored the constitutional mandate for the Cabinet Secretary to implement Free and Compulsory Basic Education for all school-going Kenyan children.
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He directed secondary schools to refrain from instructing parents to pay charges outside the authorized fees guidelines, as outlined in Kenya Gazette Notice No. 1555 of March 2015.
The approved fee structure entails a spread ratio of 50%, 30%, and 20% for the 1st term, 2nd term, and 3rd term, respectively.
Moreover, the PS clarified that the lunch program for day secondary schools is optional, and no child should be denied schooling for failure to pay for it.
Belio emphasized that public primary and junior schools, being predominantly day schools, do not charge fees for tuition, as the Ministry covers the requisite expenses through Capitation.
Additionally, he reiterated the Ministry’s ban on schools selling or stocking uniforms and boarding items, emphasizing the need for compliance across all institutions.
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Ministry Puts Principals and Directors on Notice Over School Fees