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TSC News Portal

Details on Mwalimu National BOSA loans and prorata

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Are you a member of Mwalimu National Sacco and you need a loan. Well. You need to know that the Back Office Services Activities (BOSA) is a department in Mwalimu National which offers various loan products against members’ deposits.

The Products offered under BOSA include:

(i) Emergency Loans at Mwalimu National:

 These loans are granted for unforeseen circumstances.
 They are repayable in 24 months.
 Emergency loans are granted within a member’s entitlement.
 Maximum limit is a members’ deposits x 5 (subject to 1/3 salary rule and ability to repay within twelve months)

(ii) School Fees Loanat Mwalimu National:

 Granted for educational purposes.
 Repayable in 24 months
 Maximum limit is a members’ deposits x 5 (subject to 1/3 salary rule and ability to repay within twelve months)

(iii) Normal Loan at Mwalimu National:

 Granted for investment purposes
 Repayable in 36 months
 Maximum limit is a members’ deposits x 3 (subject to 1/3 salary rule and ability to repay within 36 months)

(iv) Development Loan at Mwalimu National:

 Granted for development purposes
 Repayable in 48 months
 Maximum limit is a members’ deposits x 4 (subject to 1/3 salary rule and ability to repay within 48 months)

(v) Super Loan at Mwalimu National:

 Granted for investment purposes
 Repayable in 60 months
 Maximum limit is a members’ deposits x 4 (subject to 1/3 salary rule and ability to repay within 60 months)

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(vi) Vision Loan at Mwalimu National:

 Granted for investment purposes
 Repayable in 84 months
 Maximum limit is a members’ deposits x 5 (subject to 1/3 salary rule and ability to repay within 84 months)

(vii) Wezesha Loan at Mwalimu National

This is a loan product for new members who have the ability to repay but have insufficient deposits to qualify.

One third of the loan amount applied is retained as part of the member’s savings and the remaining amount is given to the member under the following terms:

 Maximum amount loanable is KShs. 600,000.00
 Processing fee of 2% paid upfront
 Repayment period is 36 months and the loan has to be fully guaranteed
 Wezesha Loan is only issued to new members and not readmitted members.

Mwalimu National BOSA loans calculations.
Mwalimu National BOSA loans calculations.
Mwalimu National BOSA loans calculations.

MWALIMU SACCO PRORATA

This is a percentage of savings pegged on the amount of loan a member borrows. Prorata encourages a savings culture.

It is important to note that your next loan will be bigger than this current one because, prorata will enable you increase your savings and you will also enjoy a very good dividend percentage at the close of the financial year.

Breaking Education News

Full list of Deployed/ Promoted Principals

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The Ministry of education has released a list of 53 new Principals. Some of the new Principals have been promoted while the rest were transferred from their respective stations.

LIST OF DEPLOYED PRINCIPALS

Below is the full list of deployed Technical Colleges Principals;

NAME CURRENT DEPLOYMENT/GRADE CURRENT STATION DEPLOYMENT/ INSTITUTION TRANSFERRED TO
Dr Edwin Tarno Principal Rift Valley TTI KTTC Principal
John O. Odhiambo Principal citizennewsline.co.ke Siaya Institute Kabete National Polytechnic Principal
Rukaria Stephen Ndegwa Deputy Principal Meru National Polytechnic Meru National Polytechnic Principal
Hassan Mohammed Noor Principal Nyandarua TTI North Eastern National Polytechnic Principal
David M. Mwangi Principal Mukiria TTI Kisii National Polytechnic Principal
Mrs. Catherine Kelonye Acting Principal Sigalagala National Polytechnic Kisumu National Polytechnic Principal
Anne Mbogo Principal Kiirua TTI kenya Coast national Polytechnic Principal
Evans Omwenga Bosire Principal Keroka TTI Sigalagala National Polytechnic Principal
Felix Mungatu Principal Wote TTI Nyandarua TTI Principal
Omwoyo Hilda Joyce Shikaru Principal KTTTC P.C Kinyanjui Principal
Sammy Waititu Principal P.C Kinyanjui Kiambu Institute of Science and Technology Principal
Michael Gaitho Njungu Principal Kiambu Institute Mathenge TTI Principal
Hannah Mburu Principal Mathenge TTI Thika TTI Principal
Dr. Chukwu Rosebella Cheptoo Principal Kiptargo TVC Ollessos TTI Principals
Josphat Kipkemboi Principal Ollessos TTI Baringo TTI Principal
Samira Abdallah Soud Deputy Principal A.S Mwidani Likoni TVC Principal
Edward Lewa Principal Lokoni TVC Weru TVC Principal
Cheruiyot Sammy Chirchir Principal Thika TTI Keroka TTI Principal
Bwambok Isaac Kimutai Principal baringo TTI RVTTI Prncipal
Onywoki Daniel Nyariki Principal Kisii National Polytechnic Gitwebe TTI Principal
Mossop Sally Lukuyu Deputy Principal Kitale National Polytechnic Aldai TTI Principal
Kalola Joshua Munywoki Principal North Eastern National Polytechnic J.J Nyaga principal
Loice Kutoh Principal Aldai TTI Sangalo Institute Principal
Martin L. Wekesa Deputy Principal Sangalo Institute Cherenganyi TVC Principal
Charles Ndiege Akach Principal Kebete National Polytechnic Kaimosi Friends Colege Principal
Kivutih Simon Charles Principal J.J Nyaga TTI Ndia TVC Principal
Chanzu Zedekiah Lomolo Principal Kisumu National Polytechnic Butere TTI Principal
Muthoka Mary Mwende Principal Kenya Coast National Polytechnic Wote TTI Principal
Clerkson Newton Barasa Principal FCK Narok South TVC Principal
Rukunja Geoffrey Mucee Chabari Principal Meru National Polytechnic Mitunguu TTI Principal
Carolyne k. Muguna Principal Mitunguu TTI Mukiira TTI Principal
Latichia Mutiira Ndige Principal Muraga TTI Kiirua TVC Principal
Dinah Obonyo Deputy Principal Nairobi Technical Limuru TVC Principal
Chege James Karanja Deputy Principal Rift Valley TTI Kipipiri TVC Principal
Abongo Boaz Ojwang Deputy Principal Sangalo Institute Mumias TVC Principal
F.P Kipchirchir Principal Tinderet TVC Elburgon TVC Principal
Kiplagat david Busienei Deputy Principal Kipsoen TVC Emurua Dikir TVC Principal
Wambulwa Fredrick Khisa Registrar Matili TTI Loima TVC Principal
Wainaina Francis Mbugua Head of Department North Eastern Polytechnic Ijara TVC Principal
Cheruiyot Stephen Kipyegon Head of Department liberal Studies Eldoret National Polytechnic Turkana TVC Principal
Wilfred Owala Deputy Principal Kisumu National Polytechnic Awendo TVC principal
Kyuli carritone Kavita Deputy Principal Katine TTI Mwala TVC Principal
Muindu Justine Kanini Deputy Principal Wote TTI kibwezi West TVC Principal
Kagai E. gateru Deputy Principal Coast Institute of Technology Lamu East TVC Principal
David Murungah Deputy Principal Taita Taveta TVC Taita Taveta TVC Principal
Evealyne Chepkorir Siele Deputy Principal RVST Emgwen TVC Principal
 Joseph Kimei Deputy Principal Ziwa TTI Turkana East TVC Principal
Florence Wakaba Deputy Principal Kabete National Polytechnic Kinangop TVC Principal
Ann W.K Wahome Deputy Principal Meru National Polytechnic Muraga TVC Principal
Tiony Abdi Kirwa Deputy Principal Sot TTI Tinderet TTI Principal
Stalin Otieno Olwenge Deputy Principal Sikri TTD Mabera TTI Principal
Daniel Otieno Randa Principal Sikri TTD Siaya institute Principal
Evans Omondi Wilberforce Oyoo Principal Mabera TVC Sikri TDB Principal
Breaking Education News

2020-2023 new school term dates for schools in Kenya

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The Ministry of Education in Kenya has released the 2020-2023 revised term dates for all primary and secondary schools. In the new school calendar, all schools will reopen fully on January 4th 2021. This will apply to all continuing PP1 and 2; Grade 1, 2 and 3; Class 5, 6 and 7; and Form 1, 2 and 3 learners.

2020 TERM 2 AND 3 REVISED SCHOOL CALENDAR FOR CONTINUING LEARNERS

Here are the new term dates for the PP1 and 2; Grade 1, 2 and 3; Class 5, 6 and 7; and Form 1, 2 and 3 learners.

Activity Opening Dates Closing Dates Duration
Term 2 4/1/2021 19/03/2021 11 weeks
Holiday 20/03/2021 9/5/2021 7 weeks
Term 3 10/5/2021 16/07/2021 10 weeks
Halfterm Break 3/6/2021 7/6/2021 3 Days
Holiday 17/7/2021 25/7/2021 1 week

 

2021 TERM DATES FOR ALL LEARNERS

Activity Opening Dates Closing Dates Duration
Term 1 26/7/2021 1/10/2021 10 weeks
Halfterm Break 26/8/2021 29/8/2021 3 days
Holiday 2/10/2021 10/10/2021 1 week
Term 2 11/10/2021 23/12/2021 11 weeks
Christmas/Holiday 24/12/2021 2/1/2022 10 days
Term 3 3/1/2022 4/3/2022 9 weeks
KCPE 7/3/2022 10/3/2022 4 days
KCSE 11/3/2022 1/4/2022 3 weeks 1 day
KCSE MARKING 4/4/2022 22/4/2022 3 weeks

 

2022 TERM DATES FOR ALL LEARNERS

Opening Dates Closing Dates Duration
Term 1 25/04/2022 1/7/2022 10 weeks
Halfterm Break 26/05/2022 29/5/2022 3 Days
Holiday 2/7/2022 10/7/2022 1 week
Term 2 11/7/2022 16/9/2022 10 weeks
Halfterm Break 11/8/2022 14/8/2022 3 Days
Holiday 17/09/2022 25/9/2022 1 week
Term 3 26/09/2022 25/11/2022 9 weeks
KCPE 28/11/2022 1/12/2022 4 Days
KCSE 1/12/2022 23/12/2022 3 Weeks, 1 Day
KCSE MARKING 2/1/2023 20/1/2023 3 Weeks

 

2023 TERM DATES FOR ALL LEARNERS

Opening Dates Closing Dates Duration
Term 1 23/1/2023 21/4/2023 13 weeks
Halfterm Break 23/3/2023 26/3/2023 3 days
Holiday 22/4/2023 7/5/2023 2 weeks
Term 2 8/5/2023 11/8/2023 13 weeks
Halfterm Break 29/6/2023 2/7/2023 3 days
Holiday 12/8/2023 27/8/2023 2 weeks
Term 3 28/8/2023 3/11/2023 10 weeks
KCPE 6/11/2023 9/11/2023 4 days
KCSE 10/11/2023 1/12/2023 3 weeks 1 day
KCSE MARKING 4/12/2023 22/12/2023 3 weeks
Breaking Education News

Education officials to visit dormitories- PS Jwan directs

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Education officials have been advised to visit dormitories and toilets students use whenever they inspect and supervise schools.

Early Learning and Basic Education Principal Secretary Dr  Julius Jwan said the officials need to go where students sleep and also see the condition of the toilets to establish friendliness of the learning environment in the schools.

Dr Jwan made the remarks when he met senior education officials, led by the Director General Mr. Elyas Abdi at the Kenya School of Government (KSG).

The Principal Secretary advised against guided tours of the institutions, saying the officials must inspect every part of the school, including dormitories, toilets and classrooms.

School inspection and supervision is part of the basic role of Quality Assurance and standards system whose objective is to ensure quality control through regular inspection and continuous supervision of instructional and other educational services in the schools.

Also present during the occasion were Country Directors of Education and their counterparts at the sub country levels.

Breaking Education News

Two activists file petition to have schools’ reopening suspended till January next year

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Plans by Education Cabinet Secretary, Professor George Magoha, to reopen schools have been opposed in the corridors of justice. This is after two Homa Bay based activists moved to court on Wednesday to block the reopening of all public and private schools.

The activists, Evance Oloo and Michael Kojo, in their petition say many schools are ill prepared and the rushed reopening of schools will expose learners to the risk of contracting the deadly corona virus disease. They argue that the schools have not been primed for reopening since some were used as covid19 isolation centres.

“Opening schools now can expose pupils (learners) to unprecedented danger.. The Ministry of Education is acting against the Public Health Act by issuing health guidelines on school reopening instead of letting the Ministry of Health do so,” the two argue.

In the new calendar learners in Grade 4, Class 8 and Form Four will begin their 2020 second term on Monday, 12th October, 2020. The term will last for 11 weeks and the closing date has been set to be December 12, 2020. The term has been shortened from the previous (normal) duration of 14 weeks.

Term 3 will last for 11 weeks; starting on January 4, 2021 to March 19, 2021.

Half term break for second term has been scrapped off and just like it has been the norm in third term learners will stay in schools throughout. This is in a bid to recover lost time.

The Kenya Certificate of Primary Education, KCPE, examinations are set to start on March 22, 2021 and end on March 24, 2021; lasting for only 3 days. On its part, the Kenya Certificate of Secondary education, KCSE, examinations will commence on March 25, 2021 and end on April 16, 2021; taking 3 weeks and 2 days.

In the case that was filed before the Homa Bay based Senior Principal Magistrate Obutu Thomas, the two argue that the Cabinet Secretary has no powers in law to alter the schools’ calendar. It is the prerogative of the National Assembly to change the school calendar that usually starts in January of every year.  They now want schools to reopen in January next year, 2021.

“It is illegal (for CS Magoha) to change the academic calendar without legal backing. Any change of the academic calendar should be anchored in the law,” they added.

The case that has been certified as urgent will be heard on October, 21, 2020; which will be a over a week from the announced reopening date of October 12, 2020.

Related news;

STAKEHOLDERS DIVIDED.

Kenya National Union of Teachers, KNUT, Secretary General Wilson Sossion has supported the move by the CS to reopen schools; saying learners are more safe at schools than at homes.

“Children are safer in school than at home. We have seen this debate. And as a Union, we have agreed, children should go back to school as early as possible. Covid will not go away, it is here with us and we have known how to manage it. And teachers safety has not been clearly guaranteed by the government. So far, there’s no expressed assurance of teachers safety in school and how they will access free and affordable quality healthcare in an event  they are hit with the virus,” Said Sossion on Monday.

“The time to re-open schools is Monday, 12 October…. We can assure parents that the students will be safe as necessary preparations have been put in place…. Kenyans should not imagine that schools will be free from COVID-19. The disease might occur. Schools have been linked with a medical facility in case a situation arises Teachers must be trained on how to handle the disease and manage students,” he added.

But some parents remain pessimistic on the move by CS Magoha to reopen schools this year; arguing that they have been caught unawares and that they had prepared to take their kids back to schools in January next year.

CS MAGOHA RECEIVES NEW ORDERS.

In  rejoinder, the High Court in Nairobi, has ordered CS Magoha to urgently convene a stakeholders’ meeting to reach an agreement on a dispute concerning schools’ reopening. This follows a petition by a parent, Joseph Enock Aura, who challenged the government’s decision to close schools till January next year. Mr Aura wanted the court to compel the Education ministry to reopen in-person learning institutions and schools from September 1, 2020.

Justice J.A Makau on Wednesday directed CS Magoha to invite the parties in the petition and stakeholders within the shortest time possible to reach a settlement on the issue of reopening of schools, on what conditions and when and report to the Court on or by 14th October 2020.

Breaking Education News

What CS Magoha said concerning the status of reopening and closing of schools

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Education Cabinet Secretary Professor George Magoha has said schools will remain open for class 8, form 4 and grade 4 learners. This is despite the rising numbers of new corona virus disease cases being recorded lately.

The CS who was speaking in Kakamega County on Friday when he visited schools in the area to assess supply of desks under the locally Assembled desk for schools stimulus project by the Government.

He said the few recorded cases are manageable and each of them will be dealt with independently.

But even as CS Magoha put up a brave face on Friday, the biggest worry is the realization that the disease is slowly finding its way into schools; as learners and teachers fall victim. Already, a teacher at Kiambu County has succumbed to the disease. Two schools in Mombasa County have since been closed after recorded cases of covid 19. Star of the Sea and Tononoka high schools were shut on Monday with learners and teachers told to stay away for two weeks.

Parents at Star of the Sea High School were told that school operations would resume on November 2; after measures to curb spread of the disease have been put in place.

“This is to inform you that school operations have been suspended from today, Monday October 19, to allow fumigation. Normal operations will resume on November, 2.” Read a memo by the school dispatched to parents.

A teacher at Mama Ngina Primary School in Kiambu County succumbed as a result of covid19 related complications; with those said to have come into close contact with the teacher sent into isolation. St. Peters Mumias Boys High School in Kakamega County also joins the list of schools that have recorded cases of Covid19.

“We have had small pockets of outbreaks in places such as Mombasa, which have necessitated certain actions, for example the closure of schools for two weeks, but we are happy nothing serious has happened,” Magoha explained.

“We are happy that we reopened schools for three million of our children in Grade Four, Standard Eight and Form Four. We are also very happy to announce that nothing major has happened that can shake our resolve.” He added.

Education CS Professor George Magoha (right) at Mukambi Primary School in Kakamega County on Friday. He was on a tour to assess supply of desks under the locally Assembled desk for schools stimulus project.

Magoha said learners in grade 1-3, class 5-7 and form 1-3 will continue remaining at home as the government assess the situation in schools; adding that his Ministry had not stated the exact reopening dates for these learners.

“That date of October 26 belonged to the media. What we said is that we were going to monitor how everything is going and shall make an announcement in consultation with the Interior and Health ministries.” He clarified.

“We are auditing processes that took place over the last two weeks. Any decision to be made will be based on facts. Nobody is thinking of closing schools again and nobody is thinking of rushing to reopen the others.” Further said CS Magoha.

But, it is clearly evident that plans to fully reopen schools will further be hampered by inadequate infrastructure in most schools. On Thursday, Education Chief Administrative Secretary Zack Kinuthia said there will be no rushed reopening of schools for the remaining learners.

“The health of our children is paramount. We believe schools are able to control the Grade 4, Standard 8 and Form 4 learners but the rest of the children may have to wait a little longer.” Said Kinuthia, on Thursday.

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Breaking Education News

Learners receive free face masks in a bid to curb Covid 19 in schools

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Faulu Micro-finance Bank has embarked on a Covid-19 sensitization campaign and distribution of face masks to pupils in schools.

The bank’s Managing Director (MD) Apollo Njoroge, said the bank through UAP Old Mutual Faulu Foundation had embarked on a Sh 10 million corona virus sensitization campaign in 150 schools across 40 counties.

Ten schools from Kajiado county are set to benefit from the sensitization campaign with pupils receiving re-washable face masks.

Addressing the press in Kajiado Wednesday during the launch of the exercise, the MD noted the need for frequent sensitization of Covid 19 protocols among pupils to ensure that the curve is flattened.

Njoroge noted that the foundation will be visiting schools to distribute face masks while at the same time sensitizing them on the importance of strictly adhering to laid down guidelines by the Ministry of Health to curb the resurgence of the virus.

“We have embarked on a Covid-19 sensitization campaign over the next three months to emphasize on the importance of following laid down protocols so as to keep the virus at bay and avoid the spread of infection among pupils,” he said.

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Kajiado Deputy Governor Martin Moshisho emphasized that the fight against coronavirus could only be won if all laid down regulations are followed to the letter.

He urged locals to ensure that they wear face masks properly, wash their hands frequently with soap and water and maintain social distancing at all times.

Moshisho said the low numbers of positive cases in the country in the past few days was encouraging and a sign that the curve was flattening.

“The disease is still here with us, let us not forget to continue wearing masks, sanitizing and observing social distance to completely flatten the curve and avoid resurgence of the virus,” said Moshisho.

Kenya has so far recorded 99,308 positive cases since the first case was reported in the country in March 2020 with 1,734 people succumbing to the virus.

Breaking Education News

All public boarding primary and secondary schools to purchase rice from the government- Education Ministry orders

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The Ministry of Education has ordered all schools to buy rice from the Kenya National Trading Corporation, KNTC. This is in line with a directive by President Uhuru Kenyatta on 14th January, 2020. In the directive the President ordered that the Kenya National Trading Corporation should purchase all the excess rice from Kano Plains and Mwea for onward selling to Disciplined forces, Prisons Services and public schools.

Via a circular dated 8 October, 2020, Principal Secretary Dr. Belio Kipsang says all schools should comply with the Government policy of Buy Kenya Build Kenya as provided for in Section 155 of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act of 2015.

“In fulfillment of this Policy, it is brought to your attention that all public primary and secondary boarding schools are advised to comply with the Buy Kenya, Build Kenya as provided by Law by purchasing their rice for consumption from the Kenya National Trading Corporation,” says Dr. Kipsang.

Schools are set to reopen next week; after a long closure as a result of the outbreak of covid19 in the country. Most schools had to dispose their food stuffs to avert loses.

Kipsang says the quality of the rice is fit for consumption by learners.

“The Kenya National Trading Corporation has given its assurances that rice is available to Government procuring entities from KNTC Depots in Nairobi, Kisumu, Eldoret, Wote, Meru, Nakuru, Kitale and Karatina. Additionally, the Corporation is able to service several institutional orders as other orders are being processed.” He assures.

The price per a 50kg bag ranges between Sh5,200 to Sh8,250; depending on its quality.

HERE ARE THE RICE PRICES.

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Breaking Education News

Sh149 Million Allocated For Classrooms Construction In Kirinyaga

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The Competence Based Curriculum (CBC) Infrastructure Development programme has kicked off in Kirinyaga with the government setting aside Sh149 million to construct 189 classrooms to be spread across the county.

The County Commissioner Jim Njoka speaking during a meeting over the CBC programme Monday said Kirinyaga East Sub County has been allocated the highest number of classrooms at 52, followed by Kirinyaga Central 49, Kirinyaga West 39, Mwea East 27 and Mwea West 22, expected to be ready by April 2022.

Njoka said the implementation of the programme follows the presidential pronouncement on October 20 that 10,000 classrooms be put in readiness for Junior Secondary classes come 2023.

The county commissioner said the infrastructure programme is targeted to upscale the current infrastructure in selected secondary schools by providing additional classrooms.

“A multi-agency taskforce has been put in place to coordinate the implementation of the programme and ensure effective and timely completion of the programme,” Njoka said

The role of the school administration will be to identify sites for classroom construction, besides supporting and ensuring successful implementation by supervising the works on a daily basis, he added.

The county commissioner said the programme also encompasses the economic stimulus packaging in that all the construction work is to be undertaken by the local contractors.

“Our administrators including chiefs and their assistants have been very instrumental in the identification of the local contractors,” he said, adding that the local administrators would also be deployed to supervise the construction and ensure the work is done on time.

Njoka said much of the work is under the sub county level and therefore the role of the county committee will be to oversee the sub county technical committee to make sure classes are in place by April 2022.

“The work must be of very high quality and only contractors with registration certificates will be considered for the programme,” he reiterated.

At the same time, the county commissioner advised contractors who may not be registered to do so in order to benefit from the funding as it is also meant to boost the local economy.

“It takes only two days for one to get a certificate and therefore nobody should be locked out because of non-compliance,” Njoka said, adding that it is also a requirement that the contractors demonstrate capacity of up to 50% of the cost of the project, which will be paid in phases as agreed.

The county commissioner said schools with existing storey blocks can go ahead and add CBC classrooms but with proper branding.

He said unlike other government programmes, there is no down payment for the work and those engaged will receive their payment via Mpesa directly from the headquarters.

Njoka said out of 149 schools in Kirinyaga only 20 were left out of the programme. The identification of schools was based on infrastructure deficit.

Universities and Colleges Portal

University of Eldoret announces reopening dates

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The University of Eldoret has announced the reopening dates for all students. The university that was closed in March this year, due to the covid 19 pandemic, will open its doors to students on 12th October, 2020.

Here is the presser from the university;

SUBJECT: REOPENING OF THE UNIVERSITY ON 12TH OCTOBER, 2020

The above subject refers.
This is to officially inform all students that after the presidential address on reopening
of the universities, the university senate in its 71st meeting held on Thursday 1st October, 2020 approve the reopening of the university in phases as follows:

  • All fourth year students (main and town)
  • All postgraduate (main and town)
  • All Engineering)
  • All diploma final year students (town)

The above mentioned groups to report to the university on 12th October, 2020 (see attached opening dates and other important dates for various activities).

Other classes (third, second and first years (2019/2020) to see the attached schedule on their opening dates.

Kindly adhere strictly to the scheduled timelines.

You will be expected to adhere to the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health protocols on curbing of the spread of Covid-19. Students are expected to come with their face masks.

Thank you.
REGISTRAR – ACADEMIC

Breaking Education News

Education Ministry restricts Co-curricular activities, assemblies in the latest circular to schools

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The Ministry of education has released finer details on schools’ reopening. Through a circular released by Basic Education Principal Secretary, Dr. Belio Kipsang, the Ministry says Co-curricular activities and school assemblies should be restricted, taking into
account the social distancing protocols.

Here is the full presser;

RE: PHASED RESUMPTION OF FACE TO FACE LEARNING IN ALL SCHOOLS IN KENYA

The progressive re-opening of schools for face-to-face learning will commence with Grade 4 (Competency Based Curriculum Pioneer Class), Class 8 and Form 4 on Monday, 12th October, 2020. Learners from both public and private schools will reopen for Term 2 of the 2020 academic calendar.

The Ministry had earlier released health and safety protocols for implementation by all learning institutions in readiness for the resumption of face-to-face learning. These measures are in line with the guidelines from the Ministry of Health, and will be used as the basis for decision-making on COVID-19 containment.

At the same time, training manuals for school managers, teachers and learners have been prepared and released to schools in preparations for reopening. Although physical distancing will remain a challenge, it should not be used as a bottleneck to keep any child away from school.

Consequently, you are directed to ensure compliance with the following Revised Academic Calendar for Schools in 2020 as per the Cabinet Secretary’s directive. The 2021 Academic Calendar will be released at a later date.

Here is the revised 2020 school calendar;

S/N ACTIVITY GRADE/CLASS/FORM OPENING DATE CLOSING DATE DURATION
1 TERM 2 Grade 4, Class 8 and Form 4 12/10/2020 23/12/2020 11 weeks
2 TERM 2 HOLIDAY Grade 4, Class 8 and Form 4 24/12/2020 01/01/2021 1 week
3 TERM 3 Grade 4, Class 8 and Form 4 04/01/2021 19/03/2021 11 weeks
4 KCPE EXAMS Class 8 22/03/2021 24/03/2021 3 Days
5 KCSE EXAMS Form 4 25/03/2021 16/04/2021 3 weeks and 2 days
6 EXAM MARKING KCSE 19/04/2021 07/05/2021 3  weeks

N.B: Schools offering International Curriculum will also resume face-to-face learning on
12th October, 2020.

See also;

Schools should therefore note the following:

1. All Schools shall engage with students to build confidence about COVID-19 preventive and control measures to ensure health and safety of all persons in the school communities. The first few days should be spent orienting learners on COVID-19 protocols.

2. Schools shall ensure mandatory use of face masks, monitoring of body temperature for learners, staff and all other persons accessing the schools, hand-washing and observance of high levels of hygiene. Each learner will be expected to have at least two reusable face masks, preferably which can be washed, and that meet the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) requirements.

3. Schools shall maintain updated bio-data for all learners and staff and contacts of their parents/guardians for easy management of COVID-19 and other related emergencies.

4. All Schools shall provide adequate water, soap, cleaning detergents and disinfectants to ensure proper hygiene practices. Where water is not available, schools must make hand sanitizers available.

5. All schools shall ensure that school transportation comply with Legal Notice No.50 of 6th April, 2020, which require vehicles to carry not more than 50% of the capacity or as shall be advised by relevant authority from time to time.

6. All schools shall ensure daily cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and objects that are frequently touched by many people (stair railings, desk tops, knobs, light switches, walls, desks, door frames and window handles. Schools shall put up signs and posters that require and remind staff, students and visitors to maintain social distancing as well as hand washing and personal hygiene.

7. All Principals and Head teachers shall ensure proper use of facial masks or face shields that must be worn by all students, staff and any other person accessing the school.

8. All schools shall ensure availability of thermal guns for daily monitoring of body temperature for all students, staff and visitors.

9. Schools shall strengthen guidance and counselling services and provide psychosocial support, pastoral and spiritual care to learners and staff.

10. All unnecessary visits by outsiders shall be restricted. School functions like parents’ days and inter-schools’ activities are suspended for the time being.

11. All schools have been linked to the nearest public health facility prior to being re-opened. Telephone contacts of the institutions should be available to schools in case of emergencies.

12. Each school shall constitute a COVID-19 Response Commiitee and maintain strong networks with the nearest health facility, the County Rapid Response team, National Government Administrative Office and nearest Education Office to strengthen support mechanisms.

13.Co-curricular activities and school assemblies should be restricted, taking into account the social distancing protocols.

The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, will continuously monitor adherence to “Guidelines on Health and Safety Protocols for Reopening of Basic Education Institutions amid COVID-19 Pandemic” in order to determine when to re-open for all other learners in primary and secondary schools.

It should be pointed out that the country is still recording new cases of COVID-19 hence the need for strict adherence to all Government mitigation protocols al all times.

Detailed guidelines and protocols for schools reopening and continued learning are accessible on the Ministry of Education website; http://www.education.go.ke or at the nearest Ministry of Education offices.

You are required to strictly adhere to all the reopening dates and protocols.

Breaking Education News

New boarding school to be constructed here

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The government will construct a modern boarding primary school as part of its commitment to improve education standards in Turkana county by constructing modern primary schools and ECDEs.

The National Drought Management Authority(NDMA) is at advanced stages of constructing a modern boarding mixed primary school at Urum, Loima sub county that will ensure pupils from Turkana and West Pokot access education.

NDMA county coordinator Abdkikadir Jillo said during a meeting attended by Cabinet Secretary for Devolution Eugene Wamalwa that the concept note for the school has already been completed in collaboration with the county government.

“We have budgeted for the school and we shall commence works in the new financial year,” said Jillo.

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Wamalwa said the government has constructed a similar school at Nasol, West Pokot county to foster peaceful coexistence between the Turkana and Pokot communities.

Responding to area MCA Patrick Imana who had requested to know the fate of Urum pupils whose school was blown away by wind late last year, Jillo said the project has been factored and would start in the 2021/2022 financial year.

At the same time Turkana County Deputy Governor Peter Lotethiro has said the county would construct an Early Childhood Development Education centre to cater for the growing population at Lokiriamet, in the same sub county.

The leaders were speaking in Lokiriamet during the launch of a borehole.

Breaking Education News

Reopening dates for schools, universities and cololeges; CS Magoha to make the announcement

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Kenyans will, SOON, have the final details on when schools are expected to reopen. During the 10th state of the nation address on Monday, President Uhuru Kenyatta said Education CS George Magoha will be releasing exact details on reopening of schools, universities and colleges.

The President directed the CS to convene a Stake holders’ meeting so that to come up with final recommendations.

“The Ministry (of Education) will then communicate to parents and students on a way forward in regards to their studies,” said President Uhuru.

The President at the same time directed that all government institutions should be availed, unconditionally, to the Ministry of Health for isolation and quarantine purposes.

“That any Government Institutions including all sporting facilities, stadia and educational institutions and other Government facilities, upon designation by the Cabinet Secretary for Health as a public health facility, shall be availed to the Ministry of Health for Isolation and Quarantine purposes,” he directed.

CS Magoha had earlier announced that all primary and secondary schools would reopen in January next year, when the covid 19 infection curve would have flattened.

CS Magoha had announced the the 2020 academic year will be considered lost and learners will have to repeat their current classes next year.

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MURKY ROAD-MAP TO REOPENING OF UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES IN SEPTEMBER

Plans of reopening universities and Colleges in September this year may also face serious setbacks after several institutions, so far, failed to meet the minimum requirements for compliance with health guidelines on covid-19.

A top level management team from the Ministry, led by CS George Magoha, has been traversing the country to assess preparedness of the institutions; ahead of the planned reopening.

The high daily infection rates may also thwart any reopening plans for the higher learning institutions in September.

University of Nairobi has since shelved any plans of reopening in September. The University Vice Chancellor Professor Kiama Gitahi has ruled out any form of on-campus learning this year saying the Senate has reached the decision to help fight the spread of coronavirus.

“University of Nairobi is at the epicentre of COVID-19. We are responsible people to observe how the situation is unfolding and only allow learning when we are advised by experts to do so,” said the VC.

The university’s decision has informed by the high rate of infections and mortality within members of the staff.

“By Saturday we had 21 cases of positive staff and they are increasing… we’ve lost others and its a fact. UoN has over 65,000 students who live in all parts of Nairobi. You cannot tell us that putting sanitizer in the hostels will help. Until we are advised by experts. We do not think will reopen anytime soon,” Prof Kiama added.

The Ministry of education has at the same time come up with tough regulations that will be followed when schools reopen. The new measures demand for complete social distance in dormitories, classrooms, libraries and at water points.

Breaking Education News

Education Ministry to schools- Pay balances owed to the Postal Corporation

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The Ministry of Education has directed schools to clear monies owed to the Postal Corporation. The Ministry notes that most schools have not been paying for the postal boxes through which they receive mails and parcels. The Principal Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Bellio Kipsang, says the non payment prompted the Postal Corporation to formally launch a complaint with the Ministry.

“The Ministry is in receipt of a letter from the Postal Corporation of Kenya in which it has emerged that many schools have not been paying for the postal boxes they have rented from the Kenya Postal Postal Corporation. Consequently, the schools have accumulated arrears totaling to KShs 185,639,304.” Says Dr. Kipsang via a circular sent to all County and Sub County Directors of Education.

The PS orders the field officers to ensure schools within their jurisdictions pay the arrears immediately.

“The Ministry notes with concern the non-payment of the rental boxes fee an direct you to ensure schools under your jurisdiction attend to this obligation,” adds Dr. Kipsang.

Non-payment of the postal charges has only but further complicated the financial status of the already struggling mail service provider. The emerging of internet has reduced the number of mails being sent through hard copies; with many preferring E-mails and other electronic modes.

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Part of the fee capitation that schools receive from the government is to be spent for various vote heads; including operation costs.

kipsang says school heads should immediately visit the postal corporation offices where they have rented the postal boxes to check their balances and clear them.

Communication from the Teachers Service Commission, TSC, to schools is done via the Postal boxes.

Breaking Education News

Government of Hungary Scholarships for Kenyan Students; How to apply

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The Government of Hungary has offered One Hundred (100) Undergraduate, Masters and PHD scholarships for the 2021/2022 academic year.

Eligible Kenyan students can apply for scholarships in the following areas of study:

  • Undergraduate (BA/BSc) studies in the fields of Agricultural Science, Computer Science and Information Technology, Economic Science, Engineering Science, Health Science, Sport Science and Natural Science;
  • Master’s (MA/MSc) studies in the fields of Agricultural Science, Computer Science and Information Technology, Legal Science, Economic Science, Engineering Science, Medical and Health Science and Natural Science;
  • Doctoral (PhD/DLA) studies in any field of interest;
  • One-tier master’s (OTM) studies in the fields of general medicine, dentistry, pharmacology, architecture, and veterinary medicine.

NB: One-Tier Masters (OTM) covers both Bachelor and the Master’s levels.

SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS

The study programmes and Host Institutions are accessible on the online application system’s website: (https://apply.stipendiumhungaricum.hu/).

The scholarship covers Tuition fee, Accommodation, Medical Insurance and a monthly stipend. Please note that these provisions do not fully cover all the costs of living in Hungary but are only a contribution to the living expenses.

Applicants are advised to check the expected living expenses both in Hungary and in the city that they wish to live in before applying by visiting: http://www.studyinhungary.hu/livingin-hungary/menu/your-costs-of-living.html

Eligibility

A. Undergraduate

a) Minimum KCSE Mean Grade of B (plain).
b) Not more than 25 years of age.
c) Grade “B” in core subjects in the preferred field of study.
d) Completed Secondary Education in the last three (3) years.
e) Have original KCSE certificate.

B. Postgraduate

(i) Graduated with a Bachelor’s degree upper second class honors level.
(ii) For PhD, applicants must have a relevant Master’s Degree.
(iii) Are below thirty eight (38) years for Masters and forty five (45) years for PhD.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

1. Preliminary application forms are obtainable from the Ministry of Education offices at Telposta Towers, 27th floor Room 2702. The application forms can also be downloaded from the Ministry’s website: http://www.education.go.ke

2. All applicants must also submit their application through the online application system of Tempus Public Foundation. After registration, the applicants are able to access the application surface and upload the required documents. Please note that no application will be accepted without the online submission.

A guide to the online submission is available on http://www.stipendiumhungaricum.hu website.

The online application can be accessed on: http://apply.stipendiumhungaricum.hu
The deadline for submission of the complete application package of online application to the Tempus Public Foundation is 15th January 2021 (23:59 Central European Time).

3. Doctoral candidates are advised to visit website (http://www.doktori.hu) before applying.

4. Students applying for doctoral program must have a supervisor at the host university. A statement of acceptance issued by the supervisor must be attached to the application.

5. Candidates who are in service should submit their application forms through their Heads of Departments and attach the recommendation letter.

6. Completed application forms with certified photocopies of ID, academic/professional certificates, transcripts, Birth Certificate, other testimonials and a proposal/study plan in the area of study (for PhD study only ), and a copy of online application form should be sent to:
Director, University Education
Ministry of Education,
P. O. Box 9583 – 00200
NAIROBI

Or delivered to: Telposta Towers, 27th floor, Room 2702. The same can be emailed through directoruniversities2018@gmail.com

7. Only shortlisted applicants (who shall be informed by email or phone call from only phone number 0771842051 shall be invited for interview.

The preliminary and online application forms should reach the Ministry not later than Tuesday,19th January, 2021 by 5pm.

NB:
1. The Ministry of Education is the designated Agent for the Hungary Government scholarships. It is mandatory for all interested applicants to go through the Ministry’s preliminary selection process.
2. Preference for nominations at postgraduate level will be given to teaching staff in the Universities and University Constituent Colleges.

Breaking Education News

Get your fees refunds from schools- Government tells parents

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Schools have been ordered to refund all fees paid by parents for term 2 and 3. This is after education cabinet secretary prof George Magoha asked primary and secondary schools’ parents to collect all unused fees from respective schools.

On her part, State House Spokesperson Kanze Dena on Tuesday, July 8 advised parents wishing to get school fees refunds to approach school administration and chart a way forward.. Her statement came a day after Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha confirmed that schools would remain closed until 2021.

This comes after Prof. Magoha on Tuesday announced that the 2020 academic year will be considered lost as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Magoha announced that all primary and secondary schools will reopen in January, 2021; when the infection rates would have declined.

Magoha, however, advised that parents could also choose to carry forward the amount to 2021 to cater for fees when schools re-open.

During a radio interview on Wednesday, the government spokesperson agreed to the concerns of parents; mostly those who had cleared their 2020 school fees. Most hit, though, are parents with children in private schools; considering the fact that such schools charge high fees.

Kanze advised parents to approach Headteachers and Principals of schools on the way forward.

“Parents will need to communicate and reach agreements with the schools, if they want refunds or the amount carried forward,” she advised.

She added that many schools opted to continue with online teaching; just to prepare the learners for national examinations, in case they were to be held in 2020. She said schools and parents can find ways of engaging the learners while at home for the remaining many months.

“They did not want their students to be unprepared if it was announced that exams would be held this year. These online classes are also being offered by different groups and I think (many parents) do not want their children to be idle.. You have to realize that there are still a lot of months left to the end of the year, so it is important for children to also be engaged while at home” she added.

NO KCSE, KCPE EXAMS IN 2020

On Tuesday, CS Magoha said there will be no KCSE and KCPE examinations this year. All learners in primary and secondary schools will have to repeat their current classes next year.

Kanze said public schools that had received school fees capitation from the government will have to utilize the money in other projects and should wait for guidelines from the ministry of education. The schools have already refunded funds meant for co-curricular activities after they were ordered by the ministry to do so.

According to Kanze, the decision to post-pone the national examinations was arrived after considering learners in remote areas; who may not have access to the current online teaching programs offered by KICD.

“You might have wi-fi and the child has their own mobile device for e-learning, but think about that child in a remote place and attends Makwekwe Primary School. They don’t have wi-fi. Don’t you think if we test them on the same level we will be violating that child’s rights?” Kanze posed.

This latest move by the government will be a big sigh of relief for most parents who have been pushing for fees refunds. But, this directive may add more insult to injury for teachers and support staff whose salaries are drawn from students’ fees.

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