This archive report was first published on 23 August 2020.
The Ministry of Education, under the leadership of CS George Magoha, has introduced a new community learning programme to ensure continuity of education during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking in Kilifi on Friday, August 21, Education CAS Zachary Kinuthia emphasized that the programme will not replace the main curriculum, but rather provide an alternative learning environment for students.
"Community based learning will not replace the main curriculum. The government does not want to see children idle," Kinuthia told the press.
As part of the programme, learners will be expected to study under trees, in community halls, and open spaces in their areas, adhering to set rules to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, including wearing face masks and sanitizing their hands.
The students will also be expected to observe social distancing and not exceed 15 per class, giving the teacher a great opportunity to interact with the children, according to Kinuthia.
So far, the ministry has registered 224,494 tutors, representing 67% of the total teachers employed by the Teachers Service Commission, in readiness for the community learning programme to kick off.
However, it is unclear if all the remaining teachers have presented themselves for registration.
The state has also commenced a countrywide risk assessment of all learning centers to establish their safety levels, suitability, and readiness to re-open, with schools expected to provide data on specific health protocols on COVID-19.
