The National Assembly Education Committee has begun stakeholder consultations on seven education sector Bills, following public participation forums in all 47 counties.
The committee, chaired by Tinderet MP Julius Melly, met civil society organisations and religious groups to gather more recommendations before compiling its report. The issues raised included education financing, learner protection, school governance, discipline and the inclusion of learners with disabilities.
Elimu Yetu Coalition proposed recognising refugee teachers' qualifications and replacing bursaries with fully funded free education.
Mizizi Elimu Africa called for clear governance structures for comprehensive schools, support for adolescent mothers returning to school and a cut in student loan repayment deductions from 25 per cent to 15 per cent.
The Elimu Bora Working Group proposed combining student grants and loans and allocating 2.5 per cent of Kenya Revenue Authority tax collections to the education fund.
World Vision Kenya called for free, nutritious meals for learners in private schools without charging parents a meal levy.
The Kenya Catholic Secretariat backed schools' retention of disciplinary powers, including suspension and expulsion, while upholding the ban on corporal punishment. It also called for education funding to follow learners instead of being limited to public institutions.
The National Council of Churches of Kenya proposed revising the definition of a school sponsor and including religious organisations in the governance of the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development.
The Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims questioned whether the Bills adequately prioritise learners' interests, opposed school levies and called for the abolition of bursaries. The Hindu Council of Kenya urged greater inclusion of its community in education policy consultations.
The United Disabled Persons of Kenya called for accessible learning materials, inclusive assessments and expanded affirmative action for learners with disabilities. The Human Dignity and Wellness Centre proposed adding climate education to the legislation.
The committee will consider the submissions alongside views gathered at the county forums as it prepares its report on the seven Bills.
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