Moi Varsity don calls for parental performance contracts to boost school results

Moi University lecturer and Busia County Education Board Chairperson, Prof Okumu Bigambo, has called for the introduction of performance contracts for parents as a strategy to improve academic outcomes in Kenyan schools.

Prof Bigambo made the remarks during the official launch of academic programmes at St Peter’s Mumias High School, where he was the chief guest.

He emphasised the need for structured parental involvement in education, noting that schools alone cannot bear the responsibility for academic performance.

“Quality education is a shared responsibility. If we want consistent academic excellence, we must formalise the roles and expectations of parents through performance contracting,” he said.

He urged Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba to take a firm position on parental accountability, particularly on the timely payment of school fees.

According to Prof. Bigambo, many schools struggle to operate effectively due to delayed or unpaid fees, which hamper principals’ ability to meet obligations to service providers.

“We cannot expect effective teaching and learning when schools are underfunded due to unpaid fees. The Ministry must ensure financial sustainability in our institutions,” he added.

Chief Principal Chrispinus Owino supported Prof Bigambo’s sentiments, stressing that academics are central to personal development and national progress.

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“Education is the foundation of every thriving society. Our goal is to cultivate excellence, which requires full cooperation from all stakeholders, teachers, parents, and learners,” said Owino.

The new academic programmes are part of St Peter’s Mumias’ broader strategy to boost student performance, promote critical thinking, and prepare learners for national and global competitiveness. Education stakeholders, school administrators, parents, and students attended the event.

The launch marks a significant step in strengthening school-community partnerships to sustain academic excellence across the region.

BY Godfrey Wamalwa