Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has announced a major relief for Kenyan families, declaring zero fees for learners in public day secondary schools and cluster four day senior schools nationwide.
The announcement marks a significant policy shift aimed at easing the financial burden on households struggling with the rising cost of living and education-related expenses.
Speaking during a public engagement, Ogamba said the government is committed to guaranteeing access to secondary education for every Kenyan child regardless of economic background.
He noted that education remains a key pillar of national development and should not be denied to learners because of inability to pay school fees.
Under the new directive, parents will no longer be required to pay tuition-related charges in public day secondary institutions and designated cluster four day senior schools.
The CS explained that the government will fully cater for essential learning costs through increased capitation to schools offering day secondary education.
Ogamba said the move is aligned with the government’s broader education reforms under the Competency-Based Curriculum and the transition to senior school.
He emphasized that the policy is meant to promote equity, retention, and completion rates, particularly among learners from vulnerable and low-income communities.
According to the ministry, day schools enroll a majority of learners, especially in rural and informal urban settlements where boarding options are limited.
By eliminating fees, the government hopes to reduce dropout cases linked to poverty and persistent school arrears.
Ogamba assured school heads that the ministry will release capitation funds on time to ensure smooth operations and uninterrupted learning activities.
He warned principals against introducing unauthorized levies, stressing that zero fees must be implemented fully and transparently.
The CS said any school found charging parents illegally will face firm administrative action, including disciplinary measures against responsible officers.
Parents and guardians have been encouraged to report schools that fail to comply with the directive through established education offices.
Ogamba acknowledged challenges previously faced by day schools, including inadequate funding and delayed disbursements.
He said reforms within the ministry are being strengthened to ensure accountability and efficient use of public education resources.
The zero-fee policy also targets easing pressure on parents with multiple children in secondary schools.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the announcement, describing it as timely and transformative for access to secondary education.
Teachers’ unions said the policy could boost enrollment and improve attendance, especially in marginalized regions.
However, some education experts urged the government to match the policy with sufficient funding to maintain learning standards.
They warned that without adequate resources, schools could struggle to provide quality education despite free access.
Ogamba responded by saying the Treasury has been engaged to guarantee sustainable financing for the programme.
He added that infrastructure development and teacher deployment will continue to support growing student populations.
County education directors have been instructed to sensitize school communities on the new guidelines.
The ministry will also conduct monitoring visits to ensure proper implementation across all regions.
Ogamba reiterated that education is a constitutional right and a shared national responsibility.
He called on parents to support learners through discipline, guidance, and provision of basic personal needs.
The CS concluded by urging learners to take advantage of the opportunity and focus on academic excellence.
He said the government expects improved outcomes and a more inclusive education system under the zero-fee initiative.
