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Private schools urged to slash fees to expand access to education

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu at a past event. (Photo: File)

By Lucy Mumbi | 25 Apr 2024

KPSA chairman Charles Ochome said the association is ready to work with the state to enhance educational opportunities.

With the reopening of schools for the second term fast approaching, the government is urging private schools to reduce fees in a bid to broaden access to quality education across Kenya.

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu emphasised the importance of making education more inclusive, especially as private schools prepare to welcome students back.

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In a speech delivered on his behalf by Coast regional education director Lucas Kangongo during the Kenya Private Schools Association (KPSA) annual general meeting, Machogu highlighted that reducing school fees will not only open more doors for potential students but also enhance participation in diverse extracurricular activities.

He noted that private schools currently have a varied fee structure, with lower cadre schools charging between Sh15,000 to Sh30,000, middle cadre schools ranging from Sh30,000 to Sh100,000, and elite schools exceeding Sh100,000 per term.

“Private institutions are critical partners in our mission to deliver universal quality education. We are urging these schools to collaborate with the government to find ways to reduce operational costs and, by extension, tuition fees,” Machogu said.

KPSA chairman Charles Ochome said the association is ready to work with the state to enhance educational opportunities.

“If the government assists in reducing operational costs, it will naturally lead to lower school fees,” Ochome said.

The CS praised private schools for their role in achieving a 100 per cent transition policy from primary to secondary education and emphasised the government's commitment to include KPSA in crucial educational processes.

He noted that the institutions were at the centre of the team that made the critical decisions on how to navigate through the school's crisis.

“Your contributions are invaluable, particularly through your involvement in the rollout of the Competency-Based Curriculum and navigating the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. I assure you that this trend will continue. Your expertise and insights are essential in shaping a future where public and private schools work hand-in-hand for the betterment of Kenyan education,” he said.

He also urged private schools to lead in adopting sustainable practices, including the use of clean energy.

"We advocate for tax concessions on renewable energy solutions like solar panels and LPG to support your transition to greener energy sources, which is beneficial not only for the environment but also cost-effective. Let us work together to make sustainability a cornerstone of our educational system,” Machogu said.

Further, he called on all stakeholders to use the annual meeting as a pivotal moment for collaborative efforts toward a top-tier education system.

“Let's use this opportunity to build bridges, break down barriers, and work together to empower every child in Kenya to reach their full potential,” he said.