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| Education CS Ogamba Migosi Warns Schools Against Introducing New Levies Without Approval |
Education CS Ogamba Migosi Warns Schools Against Introducing New Levies Without Approval
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migosi Ogamba has directed all schools across the country to stop imposing new levies on parents without following the proper approval process.
The CS said any additional charges introduced by schools must first be discussed and approved by parents before receiving authorization from the Ministry of Education. He emphasized that schools should strictly adhere to the existing regulations governing school fees to protect parents from unnecessary financial burdens.
Speaking during an education event in Nyeri County, Ogamba noted that some schools have been introducing extra charges to cater for various projects and operational expenses without obtaining the necessary approvals.
He warned that such practices are illegal and undermine the government's efforts to make education affordable and accessible to all learners.
The Cabinet Secretary explained that whenever a school identifies the need for additional funding beyond the approved fees, the matter should first be presented to parents for discussion.
If parents support the proposal, the school management should then forward the request to the Ministry of Education for consideration before collecting any money.
He stressed that no institution has the authority to impose new levies without completing this process.
Ogamba further urged school principals and boards of management to embrace transparency and accountability in managing school finances.
According to him, maintaining open communication with parents is essential in fostering trust and ensuring that decisions affecting learners are made collectively. He said schools should always provide clear justification for any proposed expenditure and avoid placing unexpected financial demands on families.
The CS observed that many parents continue to struggle with the high cost of living, making it difficult for them to meet education-related expenses. He said the government is committed to reducing the financial pressure on households by ensuring schools comply with the approved fee structures.
Parents, he added, should report any institution that introduces unauthorized levies so that appropriate action can be taken.
Ogamba warned that school administrators who disregard the ministry's directives risk facing disciplinary action.
He reaffirmed that the Ministry of Education will continue monitoring compliance across learning institutions to ensure that all schools operate within the law and uphold the interests of learners and their families.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the directive, saying it will help promote fairness, accountability and transparency in the management of school finances.
They noted that involving parents in decision-making not only enhances accountability but also strengthens cooperation between schools and families.
The latest directive is expected to reinforce government efforts to streamline school funding and eliminate unauthorized charges that have often sparked complaints from parents.
As schools prepare for future academic programmes and development projects, the Ministry of Education has reiterated that all institutions must follow the established legal procedures before introducing any new levies.
The government maintains that protecting parents from unlawful financial demands remains a key priority while ensuring schools continue to provide quality education in a transparent and accountable manner.