This archive report was first published on 25 August 2020.
On August 25, 2020, a court temporarily halted Education CS George Magoha's plans to implement the community-based learning program, following a petition filed by a parent, James Aura, through his lawyer.
Justice James Makau issued a conservatory order barring the community-based learning initiative, pending a hearing and determination of the case.
At the same time, Aura filed a petition asking the government to re-open schools for third term on September 1, 2020, arguing that President Uhuru Kenyatta's order closing institutions on March 15, 2020, lacked legal or constitutional basis.
Aura, a father of three, claimed that he had lodged the complaints on behalf of his children and other voiceless children enrolled in learning institutions across the country.
He argued that the President's decision was extra-legal and infringed on the right to education, as stated in the Basic Education Act.
Aura also criticized the Ministry of Education for implementing the decision without consulting the National Education Board, County Education Boards, parents, or learners themselves.
The Ministry of Education had rolled out the community-based learning program to engage learners and help them gain good personal habits, competencies, skills, and values.
President Uhuru Kenyatta had ordered the closure of schools in his address to the Nation on March 15, 2020.
File photo of Education CS George Magoha inspecting the level of preparedness of Siaya Institute of Technology, Siaya County on August 19, 2020.
