Education CS Warns Leaders Against Politicising Education Sector

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has warned political leaders against interfering with the education sector through what he termed as reckless and toxic politics, saying the government will not tolerate actions that threaten learning standards and ongoing reforms.

Speaking on Monday during an inspection tour of Grade 10 admissions at Kamahuha Girls High School, Mumbi Girls High School and Murang’a High School, Ogamba cautioned that unchecked political interference could erode the quality of education and derail key reforms currently being implemented.

The CS urged politicians to refrain from using education as a tool for political gain, emphasizing that schools must remain neutral spaces focused on nurturing learners and preparing them for national development.

“Education must be protected from toxic politics that threaten its stability. Schools are not arenas for political contests but centres of learning and character formation,” Ogamba said.

He took issue with leaders who have been pushing for national schools to admit a majority of learners from their local regions, noting that such calls undermine the very foundation upon which national schools were established. Ogamba explained that national schools symbolize Kenya’s diversity and unity, admitting learners from across the country to promote national cohesion.

“National schools were established many years ago, even before the creation of the NG-CDF. They were meant to bring together learners from all regions, backgrounds and communities so that young Kenyans can learn together and appreciate diversity,” he stated.

Ogamba warned that politicising school admissions and management could negatively affect both national cohesion and education standards if left unchecked. He stressed that education policies must be guided by professionalism, data and the best interests of learners rather than political pressure.

At the same time, the CS dismissed claims that school fees had been increased or that government capitation had been reduced, terming the allegations misleading and unnecessary alarm.

“It is unfortunate to see some leaders claim that school fees were increased while capitation was reduced. That is not true. The fees parents are paying are similar to what was paid last year,” Ogamba said.

He assured parents that the government remains committed to supporting education through sustained funding and reforms aimed at easing the financial burden on families.

On the transition to senior secondary schools under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, Ogamba confirmed that all learners who sat for the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) will proceed to Grade 10 without hindrance. He said adequate preparations have been made, including retooling teachers and expanding infrastructure.

“We have sufficient classrooms, laboratories and other facilities to accommodate Grade 10 learners joining senior schools,” he noted.

The CS added that education officers have been deployed across the country to oversee admissions and ensure the process is transparent and smooth. He also urged learners to remain disciplined and focused on their studies, noting that hard work and good conduct are key to success.

Ogamba said the Murang’a County inspection tour is part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to assess school preparedness and address emerging challenges early as the country continues to implement education reforms.