Author: Hezron Rooy

Education Ministry Under Fire for Challenges Affecting Learning. The Ministry of Education is facing criticism due to the frequent disruptions in learning caused by teacher strikes, student unrest, fires, and delayed funding. During a heated Senate debate, lawmakers expressed frustration at the ministry’s slow response to these issues. Recent tragedies have fueled the debate, such as the fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy two weeks ago, which claimed the lives of 21 students. Schools in Isiolo and Machakos have also reported fires, intensifying parental concerns. Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ highlighted his fear as a parent, saying that the thought of…

Kenyan Publishers Call for Removal of 16% VAT on Books. Kenyan publishers are calling on the government to eliminate the 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) on books, which they believe has increased the cost of reading materials, making them less accessible. Kenya Publishers Association (KPA) Chairman, Kiarie Kamau, addressing a media event on Sunday, explained that the VAT has made books more expensive and less affordable for the general public. He argued that by imposing this tax, the government is placing an unnecessary burden on readers, particularly those from lower-income households. “At 16%, this tax only serves to make books…

Audit Uncovers Sh358m Financial Irregularities at Kenya School of Law. An audit has identified several financial discrepancies related to the Kenya School of Law (KSL), particularly concerning millions spent on the construction of a library and moot court. The project, initiated in 2013, remains incomplete despite significant expenditures and extended timelines. Additional issues were raised regarding payments of damages, irregular renewal of contracts, excessive board meetings, and unsubmitted bank reconciliation statements. Delayed Project: Library and Moot Court The Kenya School of Law began construction of an ultra-modern library and moot court on June 24, 2013. The contract was awarded at…

KUPPET Push for Boarding School Ban to Curb Student Unrest. The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Narok Branch has intensified calls for the abolition of boarding schools, citing it as a viable solution to the increasing incidents of student violence. According to Branch Chair Newton Koech, this move could help reduce cases of fires and unrest, particularly prevalent during the third term. Koech expressed concerns that many fire incidents reported in schools could have been avoided if the government had heeded earlier warnings from the union. He emphasized the need for immediate action to phase out boarding schools, reiterating…

KNUT Raises Concerns Over School Capitation Fund Delays. The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has expressed dissatisfaction with the delayed disbursement of capitation funds to both primary and secondary schools. The union claims that this delay is negatively impacting learning in public schools. Boniface Tenai, the Executive Secretary for the Tinderet/Nandi East Branch, highlighted that the delay in releasing the funds is having severe effects on students in public schools. Tenai questioned why the government continues to withhold the necessary funds, stating that the situation is disrupting school operations. According to Tenai, the delay has led to many school…

Nyamira Police Investigates Headteacher’s Suicide and Depression. In recent months, several teachers have reportedly taken their own lives, with depression being a suspected factor. Police in Manga Sub-county, Kitutu Masaba Constituency, Nyamira, are currently investigating the death of Barnabas Nyakundi, the head teacher of Mokwerero Primary School. Nyakundi is believed to have died by suicide on Friday of last week. Evidence of Depression A note allegedly written by Nyakundi indicated signs of deep despair. He expressed that he was exhausted and unable to continue fighting, implying that death would provide him with the peace he sought. “I am tired. I…

Gatundu Medical Intern Found Dead: Suicide Note and 36-Hour Shift. Police in Gatundu South, Kiambu County, are looking into the circumstances surrounding the death of Dr. Desree Moraa Obwogi, a medical intern, who allegedly died by suicide on Sunday, September 22, 2024. Dr. Moraa’s body was found hanging from the balcony of a house she shared with a friend, located just a short distance from Gatundu Level 5 Hospital, where she had been working as an intern. She had only been at the facility for four weeks after transferring from Nakuru Level 5 Hospital. On the day of her death,…

Best IGCSE Schools in Kenya: Top International Schools. Kenya stands as both a cultural and educational hub in East Africa, home to some of the most prestigious international schools. These institutions offer high-quality education with curriculums that cater to both local and expatriate students, preparing them for success on the global stage. If you are seeking the best IGCSE schools in Kenya for your child, this guide provides insight into the top institutions, their academic programs, and key features. Parents, both local and international, aiming to relocate to Kenya often prioritize their children’s education. Kenya’s international schools offer a wide…

Baringo School Fire Destroys Dormitory, Six Students at Hospital Hill Arrested. The principal of Baringo High School in Eldama Ravine reported that no students were harmed during the early morning fire that destroyed one of the dormitories on Monday. Mr. Titus Ngetich stated that all students were successfully evacuated, as most were already in class for their morning preparations when the blaze broke out at 5:30 a.m. While Mr. Ngetich expressed regret over the loss of the building and many students’ belongings, he emphasized that the safety of the students was the priority. “We have unfortunately lost the building and…

Imperial College of Medical and Health Sciences (ICMHS): Fee Breakdown and Course Costs. Imperial College of Medical and Health Sciences (ICMHS) is a private, registered institution providing tertiary medical education. Regulated by TVETA, it offers training in both health and medical courses, primarily at the certificate and diploma levels. The college operates two campuses: the main one in Thika town and another in Nakuru city. Tuition Fees Structure at ICMHS Imperial College of Medical and Health Sciences offers a variety of programs, including those in health sciences, applied sciences, nutrition, and information technology. Below is a detailed breakdown of tuition…