Bii Slams PS Bitok Over Exam Remarks, Warns Against Encouraging Student Defiance

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has criticized recent remarks by Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok suggesting that teachers should negotiate with students rather than compel them to sit examinations.

Speaking amid growing concerns over unrest in learning institutions, Governor Bii said the comments risk sending the wrong message to learners and could undermine discipline in schools.

The governor argued that allowing students to reject examinations through negotiations may embolden acts of indiscipline and weaken the authority of teachers and school administrators.

“At a time when schools are grappling with cases of unrest and resistance to examinations, leaders must be careful about the messages they send to learners,” Bii said.

He warned that normalizing negotiations over mandatory academic assessments could make it increasingly difficult for institutions to maintain order, uphold academic standards, and ensure students meet educational requirements.

Governor Bii called on the Education Ministry to pursue alternative approaches to address emerging challenges in schools, emphasizing the need for solutions that promote discipline, stability, and a conducive learning environment.

His remarks come amid ongoing discussions on how best to handle student grievances and improve relations between learners and school administrations without compromising academic integrity.

The governor maintained that examinations remain a critical component of the education system and should not be subjected to negotiations that could erode respect for school regulations and authority.