The Ministry of Education has issued a stern directive to all secondary schools to immediately release Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) certificates withheld due to unpaid fees. This follows numerous complaints from students and parents over the unlawful practice, which has hindered learners from pursuing higher education or securing employment.
In a circular dated April 1, Principal Secretary Julius Bitok ordered County Directors of Education to enforce compliance, citing the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) Act, 2012, which prohibits withholding certificates for any reason, including outstanding fees.
“You are hereby directed to instruct all secondary schools within your respective jurisdictions to immediately release KCSE certificates to the affected students upon request,” Bitok stated. He emphasized that the certificates are crucial for academic progression and economic opportunities.
The Ministry advised schools to explore alternative legal avenues to recover fee balances rather than withholding critical documents. County Education Directors have been given 14 days to submit compliance reports.
This directive reinforces a similar notice issued last month by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, who stressed that no student should be denied their certificate due to financial constraints. Many affected learners, particularly from vulnerable backgrounds, have been forced to abandon their dreams, resorting to menial jobs or falling into depression.
The government’s intervention has been welcomed as a major relief for students and parents who have waited years to access their certificates. By enforcing the law, the Ministry aims to safeguard students’ rights and ensure that financial barriers do not impede their future prospects.
Schools are now expected to comply promptly, marking a significant step toward equitable access to education and career opportunities in Kenya.
