KESSHA Wants Grades 8 and 9 Domiciled in Secondary Schools
The Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) has proposed that the Ministry of Education move Grade 8 and 9 learners to secondary schools, citing insufficient resources in primary schools.
KESSHA chairman Willy Kuria announced on Thursday that the association intends to discuss with the government the need to domicile Grades 8 and 9 in secondary schools.
Kuria emphasized that secondary schools possess more resources, such as available classrooms, laboratories, and teachers, which can better serve the learners’ needs.
Current Situation
Currently, Junior Secondary School (JSS) includes Grades 7 to 9, which are housed in primary schools. KESSHA has recommended that while Grade 7 remains in primary schools, Grades 8 and 9 should transition to secondary schools.
The government has committed to constructing 16,000 classrooms to accommodate Grade 9 in primary schools by 2025; however, construction has not yet begun.
Kuria expressed concerns that keeping learners in primary schools for 11 years and only three years in secondary schools may inadequately prepare them for university.
Kuria pointed out that during their time, students spent six years in high school and seven years in primary school, which provided a more balanced preparation for university education.
He believes that 11 years in primary school will not support the holistic development of the child.
Capitation Issues
Kuria also urged the government to ensure timely disbursement of secondary school capitation funds, as delays hinder school operations.
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He reported that, so far, schools have received approximately Sh10,400 out of the Sh22,244 allocated per student annually, which he claims is insufficient.
Students are currently in the second term, which will conclude on August 5. Kuria stressed the need for the full capitation amount to be directed to schools to facilitate ongoing tuition and operational activities.
KESSHA Wants Grades 8 and 9 Should Domiciled in Secondary Schools
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