The Ministry of Education (MoE) has directed its officers to strictly enforce the law, which limits school transport operations to between 6 am and 6 pm, as stipulated in the Traffic (Amendment) Act of 2017.
Speaking during the 97th Kenya National Music Festivals in Meru, Principal Secretary for Basic Education Dr. Julius Bitok acknowledged that some schools continue to ignore the rule, putting students’ lives in danger.
He warned: “I am instructing all regional, county, and sub-county directors of education to ensure full compliance. Any school or individual that will violate this directive will face the full force of the law.”
The regulation, implemented after a series of deadly school bus crashes, aims to protect students through enhanced road safety measures.
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“This is not just about the Music Festivals. It is the law, and it applies everywhere. The Ministry will not compromise the safety of learners under any circumstances,” said the PS.
Dr. Bitok further announced that funding for transport and accommodation for festival participants would be released immediately, following talks with the Sports Fund CEO.
In a bid to expand the arts in education, he revealed that the Ministry plans to establish an international platform for top student performers, in addition to the national State Gala.
“Why should Nationals or the State Gala be the peak? We want our best students to represent Kenya globally. This will be part of the President’s legacy in arts and culture,” he said.
At the same time, the PS issued a stern warning to individuals who may seek to exploit learners during the festival period.
“This is a children’s event. Anyone found exploiting or endangering our students—we will hold you accountable. That era is over,” he said emphatically.
Dr. Bitok also encouraged stakeholders to find ways to help students earn from their talents, especially those from low-income backgrounds.
“Our children are gifted. Let’s not just celebrate their talents—let’s empower them to earn from it. We must support structures that commercialise creativity without exploiting the artist,” he added.
By Joseph Mambili
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