Kenyan Cabinet Secretary Machogu Issues Directives Prior to School Reopening
Kenyan Cabinet Secretary Machogu Issues Directives Prior to School Reopening.
Ahead of the May 8th, 2024 school resumption in Kenya, Cabinet Secretary for Education Ezekiel Machogu has outlined new guidelines for school administrators. These directives prioritize student well-being, address infrastructure needs, and acknowledge ongoing curriculum development efforts.
Enhancing Student Safety and Health:
- Food Safety Protocols: Recognizing the importance of student health, CS Machogu emphasized the implementation of stringent food safety measures. Schools nationwide are mandated to conduct regular inspections of food supplies and drinking water to minimize potential health risks.
- Corporal Punishment Ban Reiterated: The Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed the existing prohibition on corporal punishment. He emphasized that teachers who violate this regulation will face legal consequences.
Investing in Education Infrastructure:
- Financial Support for Junior Secondary Schools: Ksh9.6 billion has been allocated to bolster junior secondary schools. CS Machogu urged school management to utilize these funds responsibly.
- Curriculum Optimization Efforts: The Ministry of Education acknowledges ongoing initiatives to streamline the curriculum by reducing the number of subjects taught, potentially enhancing learning outcomes.
Addressing Infrastructure Challenges:
- Equipping Science Labs: In response to concerns raised by junior secondary schools, CS Machogu highlighted a collaborative effort with the World Bank to equip classrooms with science laboratories, improving access to practical learning experiences.
These directives come in the wake of recent school closures in Kakamega County due to suspected food poisoning outbreaks. The Ministry of Education’s focus on student well-being and infrastructure improvements aims to create a safer and more conducive learning environment for Kenyan students.
