Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba has recently criticized the practice of secondary schools withholding students’ result slips due to unpaid fee arrears, drawing attention to the broader issue of financial barriers affecting students’ future prospects. Wamuchomba’s comments underscore a growing concern that educational institutions may be prioritizing infrastructural investments over the immediate needs of students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
In a recent statement, Wamuchomba highlighted the detrimental impact of this practice on students’ opportunities for higher education. “You mean building classes or buying a school bus is more important than the future of a student who already gave you all they could afford? Result slips are the property of the examined, who already paid KNEC for it,” she said. Her remarks reflect a significant issue where students, who have worked hard and achieved academically, are being penalized for financial constraints that are beyond their control.
The practice of withholding result slips as leverage for fee payment not only jeopardizes students’ chances of pursuing further education but also raises questions about the ethical implications of such policies. According to Wamuchomba, the contract for unpaid fees is between the school and the parents, not the students. “If we must claim unpaid fees, the contract was between the school and the parents, not the students, some of whom are minors,” she argued. This perspective highlights the unfairness of holding students accountable for financial obligations that were agreed upon by their parents or guardians.
Wamuchomba’s intervention last week, where she assisted students in her constituency facing similar issues, underscores her commitment to addressing this problem. However, she noted that her efforts were limited to her jurisdiction and could not extend to schools outside her area, leaving many students still grappling with the repercussions of this practice.
In response to the growing concerns about financial barriers to higher education, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Magoha issued a directive in August aimed at ensuring that all students who qualify for university admission are admitted regardless of their ability to pay household contributions immediately. This directive was intended to prevent financial issues from blocking students’ access to higher education, but the ongoing practice of withholding result slips continues to hinder this objective.
The issue is compounded by the contradiction with Section 10(1)(b) of the Kenya National Examinations Council Act, 2012, which explicitly prohibits any institution or individual from withholding KNEC certificates or diplomas. This legal provision is designed to safeguard students’ rights and ensure that their academic achievements are recognized and utilized to further their education and career prospects.
The controversy surrounding the withholding of result slips highlights a critical gap in the implementation of policies designed to support students. Educational institutions must reconcile their financial needs with the obligation to support students’ academic and future success. Schools should explore alternative financial arrangements, such as loans or payment plans, rather than resorting to measures that penalize students for circumstances beyond their control.
As the debate continues, it is crucial for stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, and the public, to engage in constructive dialogue to address this issue effectively. Ensuring that students are not denied access to their result slips and future opportunities due to financial constraints is essential for fostering an equitable and supportive educational environment.
MP Wamuchomba’s advocacy on this issue serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing students’ needs and ensuring that educational policies and practices align with the principles of fairness and support for all learners.
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