Basic Education Principal Secretary (PS) Prof. Julius Bitok has stated that schools must obtain approval from the Ministry of Education (MoE) before increasing fees.
Speaking in Nakuru High School in Nakuru County, Bitok emphasized that while some schools have sought ministry approval for additional charges, there is a formal process that must be followed, particularly when parents are asked to contribute towards school projects.
“But in case the schools need parents to contribute to build something, there is an approval process that should be followed,” he said, noting it must be through the school board and the Ministry of Education.
The statement comes amid the ongoing Alliance Girls High School fee scandal. The school had previously obtained ministry approval for additional charges, including a fee of Ksh 90,000, two years ago. However, approvals have not been sought in recent years.
ALSO READ:
Kiambu MP declares zero fees for Day Secondary Schools to boost education
Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba warned that disciplinary action will be taken against any school principal found guilty of imposing fees beyond ministry approved rates.
He had directed the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to initiate disciplinary proceedings against Margaret Njeru, Chief Principal of Alliance Girls High School, for implementing an unauthorized fee structure.
The school reportedly increased fees to Ksh 120,000 without ministry approval. The CS emphasized that all principals found raising fees without following the proper approval process will face similar disciplinary measures.
The Ministry of Education set a standardized annual fee of approximately Ksh 53,554 for public boarding senior schools, In Day Senior Schools the government covers the full fee of Ksh 22,244.
By Obegi Malack
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
