No Learner to Be Locked Out of School Over Fees, Says Government

The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that no learner is denied access to education in public schools due to lack of school fees, in line with a Presidential directive aimed at safeguarding education as a fundamental right for every child.

Speaking during the launch of the Elimu Scholarship Programme at Moi Girls Isinya in Kajiado County, Principal Secretary for Education Prof. Julius Bitok emphasized that temporary financial challenges should never interrupt a learner’s education.

Under the directive, all learners are required to be admitted and allowed to continue learning as parents and guardians regularise school fees. Prof. Bitok noted that public schools are already supported through government capitation to cushion institutions as families address their financial obligations.

“This approach ensures continuity of learning and affirms our collective responsibility to protect the right to education for every child, regardless of their economic background,” Prof. Bitok said.

The Elimu Scholarship Programme is currently supporting 48,000 bright but needy learners nationwide, at a cost of KSh 20 billion, with Kajiado County recording the highest number of beneficiaries. The programme targets vulnerable learners to ensure equitable access to quality education across the country.

The launch event was attended by several leaders, including Ms. Judy Pareno, Principal Secretary for Justice, Human Rights and Constitutional Affairs; Hon. Martin Moshisho, Deputy Governor of Kajiado County; Hon. Kakuta Maimai, Area Member of Parliament; Hon. Leah Sankaire, Kajiado Woman Representative; and Hon. Joseph Makilap, Member of Parliament for Baringo North, among others.

Prof. Bitok called on school administrators, parents, and local leaders to work together in implementing the directive and supporting learners to achieve their full potential through uninterrupted education.