Growing complaints over school levies renew debate on church sponsorship in public schools

• Growing complaints over school levies has renewed debate on church sponsorship in public schools, as parents calls for accountability.

• Parents from various parts of the country have reported being compelled to pay additional levies that are not approved under the government’s official school fee structure.

The debate over the role of church sponsors in public schools has resurfaced following a growing number of complaints from parents regarding unauthorized and burdensome school charges.

Just weeks ago, Catholic bishops strongly opposed a government proposal seeking to reduce the influence of church sponsors in the management of public schools.

At the time, many education stakeholders viewed the proposal with skepticism, arguing that religious organizations have historically played a key role in establishing and supporting learning institutions across the country.

However, concerns raised by parents in recent weeks have shifted the conversation.

Parents from various parts of the country have reported being compelled to pay additional levies that are not approved under the government’s official school fee structure.

Among the charges cited are religious contributions as well as other collections allegedly linked to church activities and clergy support.

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Critics argue that such charges place an unnecessary financial burden on families already struggling with the high cost of education and living expenses.

Education stakeholders are now questioning whether some sponsors have failed to exercise adequate oversight over schools operating under their sponsorship.

They argue that institutions sponsored by religious organizations should be at the forefront of promoting transparency, accountability and fairness in school management.

“Public schools are funded by taxpayers and should remain accessible to all learners regardless of their religious background,” said one parent who requested anonymity.

“No student should be forced to contribute to religious activities as a condition for accessing education.”

The issue has renewed calls for reforms in the sponsorship framework governing public schools.

Supporters of the government’s proposal maintain that a review is necessary to ensure that public institutions remain inclusive and free from unauthorized financial demands.

As the debate continues, education authorities are expected to intensify investigations into complaints about illegal school levies while reviewing the role and responsibilities of sponsors in public education.

The outcome of the proposed reforms could significantly reshape the relationship between religious organizations and public schools in Kenya’s education sector.

By Kithinji Njeru