The Ministry of Education (MoE) has issued a stern directive cautioning schools against allowing unauthorised visits and engagements by external resource groups without express approval from the Office of the Principal Secretary.
In a circular dated February 10, 2026, addressed to all Regional Directors of Education (RDEs) and County Directors of Education (CDEs), the Ministry expressed concern about the circulation of a letter recommending that certain external groups conduct educational stage performances in schools.
The Ministry clarified that such endorsements do not replace official authorisation.
The circular explicitly states: “No individual or organisation is permitted to conduct activities or programmes in schools without express authority from the Office of the Principal Secretary.”
It further emphasises that “the requirement for authority applies to all public and private organisations,” including those undertaking educational performances, research, or learner engagement activities.
The Ministry noted that the directive is aimed at safeguarding learners and maintaining school standards. According to the document, “The directive is aimed at safeguarding the welfare, safety, and rights of learners, as well as ensuring quality assurance and standards in educational programmes implemented in schools.”
Education officials have been instructed to immediately bring the clarification to the attention of all school heads within their jurisdictions and ensure strict compliance.
The Ministry further directed that schools “do not rely on recommendations, endorsements, or approvals issued by external organisations… as a substitute for Ministry authorisation.”
Additionally, RDEs and CDEs have been asked to confirm that “all external engagements in schools strictly comply with existing Ministry approval procedures.”
While reaffirming its commitment to collaborative partnerships, the Ministry underscored that such engagements must align with established regulatory frameworks. “The Ministry remains committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders; however, all partnerships must align with established regulatory frameworks and authorisation processes,” the circular reads.
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The directive comes amid increased external interest in school-based programmes, co-curricular activities, and educational outreach initiatives, reinforcing the government’s position that learner protection and institutional oversight remain paramount.
The circular was signed by the Ambassador. (Prof.) Julius K. Bitok, CBS, Principal Secretary for Basic Education.
By Joseph Mambili
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