Implement fees report, say teachers’ union

The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) has called on the Government to immediately implement a report of the task force on secondary school fees.

Bomet Branch Executive Secretary Paul Kimeto said it was needless for the Government to have commissioned such a task force if its recommendations would not be implemented.

Speaking at Rotik Primary School during a fund-raiser for a community library, Mr Kimeto said most parents and head teachers are in the dark on what fees to be paid in January.

"As a union we do not want the recommendations of this report to gather dust in shelves like most other reports. We are demanding for its immediate implementation," he said.

Kimeto said it is only through the report's recommendation that equity and quality education for all Kenyan children can be attained.

"The report has opened a door that will ensure every child accesses basic education. Free secondary education will continue to be a mirage if the majority of Kenyans are locked out of schools because of the high school fees charged," said the unionist.

Realistic cost

The task force that was chaired by former assistant minister Kilemi Mwiria identified levies included in the school fees structures as hindrances to access of quality education.

The task force suggested a unit cost of secondary education at Sh11,105 for day schools and Sh38,969 for boarding schools. Kimeto called on the Government to promote collaboration between the ministries of Energy and Education as a way of reducing the cost of electricity.

"Treasury should also adopt the recommendation that it waives tax on goods and services meant for schools including teaching and learning materials and foodstuffs," said Kimeto.

While receiving the report President Uhuru Kenyatta insisted on involving all stakeholders before implementation.

Meanwhile the task force members have now written to the Education ministry demanding to be paid their remaining allowances.