Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has warned school principals against charging parents illegal fees outside the government-approved fee structures.
Speaking on Wednesday, March 11, during a nationwide virtual engagement meeting with more than 80,000 school administrators, Koskei cautioned the school heads that the government will not tolerate schools imposing extra levies on parents disguised under various items such as uniforms, sporting materials and equipment.
“Such practices undermine the spirit and intent of government policy and place unnecessary burden on parents and guardians. I wish to make it clear that such actions must stop immediately,” Koskei said, directing school administrators and boards of management to ensure strict adherence to all circulars and policies issued by the Ministry of Education regarding schools fees.
“Our collective responsibility is to ensure that access to education is not hindered by practices that place undue financial strain on families,” he added.
PS Bitok: School leaders, teachers play pivotal role
Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, who was also in attendance, lauded the forum as one that has provided an important platform to reflect on how schools can continue strengthening accountability, professionalism and effective management as part of the ongoing effort to revitalise the public service.
“School leaders and teachers play a pivotal role not only in delivering education but also in shaping values, discipline and integrity among our learners,” PS Bitok said. “Discussions also highlighted the need to reinforce sound administrative practices within institutions, including responsible financial management, strict adherence to procurement regulations and stronger governance structures in schools.”
According to PS Bitok, the various measures and policies set by the Ministry are critical to ensuring transparency, efficiency and responsible use of public resources.
“With thousands of secondary schools and millions of learners across the country, the education sector remains central to national development. Strengthening leadership and governance in our institutions will continue to be key in building public trust and improving learning outcomes,” he added.
On his part, Willi Kuria, the chairperson of the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) and chief principal of Murang’a High School, advocated for a review of capitation sent to schools to match the rising inflation and cost of living.
According to Kuria, the current capitation structure was formulated in 2014, and it no longer reflects the reality on the ground.
“Because of the little capitation that is coming, it becomes so difficult for schools to operate. Even the fees that have been set up were set in 2014, and now we are in 2026 — the inflation. It has become a big problem to the school leadership when they are trying to ensure there is efficient delivery of services,” he said.
