MoE should address misuse of school buses by rogue administrators

The misuse of public school buses in Kenya has reached alarming levels, with reports of principals hiring them out for personal gain without proper maintenance, putting students’ lives at risk.

These buses, meant to transport students safely, are being used for private events, weddings, and personal trips, generating income for school administrators.

This happens amid the hefty levies parents incur during the purchase and maintenances of the vehicles.

When left unchecked, parents will continue to shoulder the burden as the students’ safety remain at stake.

To address this issue, the Ministry of Education should establish clear guidelines on the use of school buses, implement strict accountability measures, and introduce transparent hiring processes. Regular audits and inspections are necessary to prevent misuse and ensure that proceeds from bus hires benefit the school and students.

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For instance, schools could implement a strict logbook system to track bus usage, and any income generated from hiring out buses could be channeled into a dedicated fund for student welfare and school infrastructure. This would ensure that the buses serve their intended purpose while also benefiting the school community.

It’s time for the Ministry to prioritize students’ safety and well-being over personal interests. By managing public school buses effectively, we can create a safer and more accountable education system which the lives of students depend on it.

By Kimtai Cherongis