Parents across the South Rift region have appealed to school heads not to send students home over unpaid fees as institutions reopen for the second term, citing the harsh economic climate.
The parents say the continued practice of sending learners away disrupts education and places an unfair burden on families already struggling to make ends meet.
“We are going through a very difficult economic period. Sending children home because of fees only worsens the situation and interferes with their learning,” noted Jane Kikwai, a parent during interviews in Bomet town.
Many families argue that they are unable to raise full school fees at once and are instead calling for flexibility from school administrations.
“We are not refusing to pay fees. We are only asking schools to allow us to pay in installments so that our children can remain in class,” stated Emily Maina, another parent from Kericho.
A major concern raised by parents is the alleged introduction of illegal levies in schools, which they claim go beyond government-approved fees. These include charges for remedial lessons, tuition, and development projects.
“Some of these levies are not clearly explained. You just find them included in the fee structure, making it even harder for parents,” said Esther Rono, a mother of two secondary school students in Bomet.
School administrators, however, maintain that they are operating under challenging conditions.
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Principals say delayed or insufficient government capitation has forced them to seek additional funds to keep schools running.
“We understand the parents’ concerns, but schools also have bills to pay. The capitation we receive is often delayed and does not fully meet operational costs,” said a principal at a public secondary school in Bomet county.
They also cited rising costs of goods and services, which have increased the financial pressure on institutions.
“We are trying to balance between keeping students in school and ensuring the institution runs smoothly. It is not an easy situation,” another school head added.
The Ministry of Education has previously issued strict directives prohibiting schools from sending students home over fee arrears, especially in light of prevailing economic hardships.
Education officials have warned that principals who defy the guidelines risk disciplinary action.
“Schools must accept whatever amount parents can provide and agree on a structured plan to clear the balance. No learner should be sent home because of fees,” an education officer said.
William Ruto has also reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted learning, warning that no child should stay at home due to lack of school fees.
“The government has set aside enough resources to ensure that all learners are in school. No child should miss education because of financial challenges,” he said in a recent address.
Last week, the government announced the release of Sh23.4 billion in capitation for the second term to support learning in public schools.
Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok said the funds are intended to facilitate smooth school operations and ease the burden on both parents and institutions.
As schools resume, parents in the South Rift are now calling for stricter enforcement of government directives and greater transparency in school fee structures to ensure that all learners remain in class without disruption.
By KIMUTAI LANGAT
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