CS Ogamba Highlights Government Achievements in Education Sector.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has highlighted significant achievements in Kenya’s education sector, underscoring the government’s commitment to allocating 30% of the national budget to the Ministry of Education.
The CS detailed various initiatives, including the employment of additional teachers and classroom construction.
A standout achievement is the conversion of 46,000 Junior Secondary School (JSS) intern teachers to permanent and pensionable terms. He stated that these teachers, absorbed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), will start receiving their salaries this January.
In addition, Ogamba noted that the government has recruited 76,000 teachers in the past 18 months to address staffing challenges in the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). This month, 2,000 more teachers will be hired, prioritising science subjects to boost expertise in STEM education.
The government has printed and distributed 9.9 million textbooks to schools, ensuring a one-to-one book-to-student ratio across all subjects. However, Ogamba acknowledged some discrepancies caused by student transfers and urged headteachers to conduct audits and request additional books as required.
Efforts to modernise education management are underway, with the Ministry upgrading the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS) into the Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS). This transformation aims to improve efficiency and data accuracy.
Expansion of the School Feeding Program
Ogamba reported that the school feeding program currently benefits 2.6 million children in low-income and arid regions. The government aims to scale this up to reach 10 million learners by 2030. Food supplies for the first term are being distributed, with logistical support from government partners.
The CS discussed ongoing improvements to the new university funding model to ensure equitable financial assistance.
The revised system seeks to balance support for needy students with contributions from those who can afford tuition. A presidential committee is finalising recommendations to address stakeholder concerns.
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Ogamba highlighted government efforts to restore education in regions affected by banditry. He noted that the Ministry of Interior is spearheading school reconstruction projects and coordinating food distribution to encourage students to return to school.
By prioritising these initiatives, the government affirms its view of education as a pillar of national development, Ogamba remarked, adding that these measures reflect the administration’s commitment to strengthening the sector for all learners.
CS Ogamba Highlights Government Achievements in Education Sector.
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