This archive report was first published on 4 December 2019.
As Kenyans gear up for the festive season, a surprise announcement by Education CS George Magoha has left many parents reeling. In a move that has sparked outrage, Magoha has allowed high school principals to increase school fees for secondary education.
Speaking during the launch of the form one selection process, Magoha explained that the increased fees will be used to improve infrastructure development in schools. He acknowledged that the 100 per cent transition policy, which has been in place for two years, has put a strain on school resources.
Principals had been pushing for a fee increase of between Ksh 15,000 and Ksh 17,000. The most affected parents will be those whose children attend county schools.
Magoha's decision is a U-turn from his previous stance in June this year, when he ruled against increasing school fees. At the time, he suggested that parents and principals explore alternative ways to develop school infrastructure.
Magoha's latest directive has raised concerns that some principals may take advantage of the situation and coerce parents into paying increased fees. He has emphasized that the decision on increasing fees should be left to parents and that no one should be forced to pay.
It is unclear why Magoha changed his mind on the issue, but his decision has sparked widespread criticism. In 2017, the Jubilee Government had promised to introduce free secondary education, a pledge that has yet to be fulfilled.
As the debate over school fees continues, parents are left wondering what the future holds for their children's education.
