Kenya’s Form One Enrollment Crisis: 280K Students Unaccounted, Govt Acts Swiftly
Kenya’s Form One Enrollment Crisis: 280K Students Unaccounted, Govt Acts Swiftly. In 2023, around 280,000 students who took the KCPE exams in Kenya haven’t enrolled in Form One. Prompting urgent government action to adhere to the 100% transition policy.
Belio Kipsang, the Basic Education Principal Secretary, leading officials in the Coast region. Noted a mere 80% enrollment within the first week, aiming for a complete transition.
Kipsang warned parents in the Coast region of potential arrest if they failed to follow the Basic Education Act. Emphasizing that lack of uniform shouldn’t hinder school attendance.
Students in the last class of the outgoing 8-4-4 system face dropout risks; Kipsang urged parents to consider day schools. Emphasizing support from principals, even without uniforms.
Promising transition levels were reported in Mombasa, with an 80% rate. Kipsang clarified President William Ruto’s directive: no charges in junior schools during the transition within the same educational environment.
The government emphasized its policy on free primary and junior secondary schools, warning against imposing fees or additional programs in junior schools. It allocated capitation funds specifically for tuition, dismissing challenges regarding food or supplies.
Homa Bay County has over 10,000 unenrolled students out of 42,408 who sat the 2023 KCPE exams. Authorities collaborate to identify and enroll, using chiefs and administrators’ assistance.
Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan expressed concern, urging headteachers to account for all 2023 KCPE candidates. Despite financial challenges, he emphasized government-disbursed capitation funds, urging students not to let finances hinder education.