Webuye East Member of Parliament Martin Pepela Wanyonyi has criticised the Ministry of Education, accusing it of implementing sweeping reforms without consulting key stakeholders in the education sector.
Addressing a forum of primary school head teachers in Webuye, MP Wanyonyi criticised the ministry’s abrupt transition from the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS) to the newly introduced Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS).
He described the shift as haphazard and disruptive, alleging that it was undertaken without adequate input from educators and school administrators.
“It is regrettable that significant changes are being rolled out without involving the people executing them. This top-down approach creates confusion and undermines the smooth running of schools,” said the MP.
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The MP’s remarks were strongly supported by Robert Mandila, Executive Secretary of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT)—Bungoma East branch, and echoed by several head teachers in attendance.
The unionist noted that the ministry’s tendency to introduce reforms without sufficient stakeholder engagement was disruptive and demoralising for teachers.
“The lack of consultation and abrupt implementation of these systems is a clear indication that the ministry is out of touch with realities on the ground,” Mandila stated.
The head teachers called on the National Assembly’s Education Committee to intervene and conduct an inquiry into the ministry’s reform processes. They emphasised the need for inclusive and transparent policymaking that considers the views of teachers, school heads, and unions.
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Several head teachers expressed concern over the increased workload resulting from new system rollouts, saying that rather than improving efficiency, the frequent changes often cause delays and technical challenges.
Despite the criticism, Wanyonyi assured educators that plans are underway to improve infrastructure in schools across Webuye East.
He revealed that renovations and facility upgrades are prioritised to ensure schools meet the required standards and provide a safe, supportive learning environment.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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