The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has urged school heads not to send students home over unpaid fees but instead to engage parents in discussions about payment options. This call comes as many families face economic challenges, making it increasingly difficult to meet school fee requirements. KNUT Bomet Branch Secretary David Mitei stressed that sending students home disrupts their education and exposes them to risks. He emphasized that the safety of children should be prioritized, and parents should be encouraged to accompany their children to school, particularly those attending schools far from home.
“Parents are now grappling with economic hardships. As a union, we would like to ask school heads not to send students home for fees and instead talk with parents on ways of payment,” said Mitei during a recent address in Bomet town. His appeal comes at a time when many parents are struggling to meet the financial demands of schooling.
Mitei also touched on the progress of Grade 9 classrooms, which have been a focus of government construction efforts. While some schools have seen the completion of these new classrooms, others are still in the process. Mitei urged teachers at schools with incomplete classrooms to find ways to ensure that learning continues smoothly despite the challenges.
In the Rongai constituency, MP Paul Chebor noted that 25 new Grade 9 classrooms have been completed, further expressing his commitment to ensuring that learning activities run smoothly in the area. He also acknowledged the issue of understaffing in public schools and assured that the government would continue hiring additional teachers to address the shortage.
A recent spot check in the South Rift region revealed that many schools are at different stages of completing Grade 9 classrooms, with parents calling for faster completion to avoid disruptions to their children’s education.
This plea from KNUT highlights the ongoing challenges faced by schools and families, calling for collaboration and solutions that prioritize student safety and education.
