MP Blames Headteachers for Academic Decline, Threatens Principal Transfers.
Masinga Member of Parliament, Joshua Mwalyo, has declared his intention to push for the transfer of all underperforming principals in his constituency. The legislator expressed deep dissatisfaction with the academic outcomes of many schools in Masinga, pointing to absenteeism among school heads and frequent student suspensions due to unpaid fees as key reasons for the declining standards.
Mwalyo emphasized that it is unacceptable for headteachers to prioritize personal business over school responsibilities, asserting that a school can only succeed when its principal is fully committed. He criticized school heads who are often away from their stations, stating that such behavior directly impacts school performance.
The MP urged school administrators to adopt alternative strategies that would help students remain in school and simultaneously ensure fee collection. While issuing bursaries, he stressed that schools must demonstrate noticeable improvement within the year, or he would advocate for the removal of their principals.
Mwalyo stated firmly that this was the final warning and that any school failing to improve its performance would see its leadership changed. He warned principals not to expect to remain in their positions if their institutions do not show results by the end of the year.
“I’m not going to sit and watch schools fail under weak leadership. If there’s no improvement by the end of this year, then I will make sure you’re out of Masinga,” Mwalyo told the gathering.
KESSHA Chair Defends Principals, Dismisses Threats
In response, Machakos County KESSHA Chair, Stephen Kavuvu, criticized the MP’s remarks, arguing that comparing schools without considering their varied capacities is unjust. Kavuvu pointed out that none of the county’s lawmakers, including Mwalyo, attended the recent education day event, questioning their genuine interest in addressing educational issues.
Kavuvu downplayed the MP’s threats, reminding him that transfers are not within his authority. He stressed that only the designated education officers are responsible for monitoring and addressing school performance, not politicians. According to him, no principal can work effectively under pressure or intimidation.
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“We have officers tasked with assessing performance. The MP should not overstep by issuing threats to principals,” said Kavuvu. “No school can thrive under pressure. Let’s work together to support, not threaten, educators.”
He added that if the MP was truly invested in education, he should convene a stakeholders’ meeting where teachers could air their challenges and collectively explore solutions.
MP Blames Headteachers for Academic Decline, Threatens Principal Transfers
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