Tag Archives: form one reporting date 2021

Breaking Education News

School reopening- CS Magoha says calendar remains unchanged

Leave a comment

Education Cabinet Secretary Professor George Magoha has come out to array fears over uncertainty in schools’ reopening. Speaking in Kiambu County on Monday Monday, while supervising the opening of Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams container, the CS said current data shows a decline in Covid-19 infections, thus there are no plans to further interfering with the schools’ calendar.

Magoha’s reassurance means that the schools are going to be opened on May 10 for the third term as was earlier planned, due to a decrease in Covid-19 infections.

“I am leapfrogging forward and hoping that since it looks like the pandemic (Covid 19) is starting to flatten, there may be no need for now to summon education stakeholders to look afresh at the timetable. It remains as we had decided earlier in the year.” said Magoha.

See also; School Term dates/ calendar for 2020 to 2023

This means that all PP1 and 2; Grade 1, 2 and 3; Class 5, 6 and 7; and Form 1, 2 and 3 learners will report for their 2020 third term on May 10, 2021.

Meanwhile, Grade 4 CBC learners will transit to Grade 5 in July, 2021.

Further, Grade 4 and incoming form one class (class 8 graduates) will stay at home as other learners complete their term 3.

2020 TERM 2 AND 3 REVISED SCHOOL CALENDAR (TERM DATES) FOR CONTINUING 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
Half-term Break 3/6/2021 7/6/2021 3 Days
Holiday 17/7/2021 25/7/2021 1 week

Related News;

Quick Links

Breaking Education News

Push KCPE, KCSE exams to 2021, open schools when it is safe- Lobby advises

Leave a comment

A group of unions is proposing that learners to continue staying at home for longer, citing the ‘unsafe’ school environment due to the current covid-19 pandemic. The group comprised of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) and Universities Academic Staff Union (Uasu) wants the government not to rush into schools’ reopening as it may lead to multiple infections by corona virus.

“Reopening of schools, colleges and universities must be transparent, phased and coupled with clear communication by government and public universities, colleges and schools, with the input of public health professionals, front-line healthcare professionals, educators, academic staff and the unions,”  said the unions in a joint presser on Wednesday.

The national covid-19 education response committee is currently working on recommendations on how to reopen basic learning institutions; with the report expect in a matter of few days.

According to knut secretary general, Wilson Sossion, learners should continue staying at home where they are otherwise safer.

“We would rather have all our children staying at home, safe and alive and repeating a year rather than sending them to school to die. The world will not come to an end if we suspend certain matters,” Sossion said during the joint presser.

RELATED NEWS;

On the KCPE and KCSE examinations, the group is proposing that they be postponed till normalcy reigns; even it will be in November next year.

“We’ve heard of people talking about Form Four and Class Eight reopening. These are human beings; the world will not come to an end. Children can repeat a class, better save lives first. Even if the exams are pushed to November 2021, if we can evade death, let’s do so. The world will not come to an end if we suspend certain matters… Nobody in this country should gamble with the lives of learners and teachers. For now, open bars and test social distancing. KCPE and KCSE are not a ticket to heaven” he added.

KNUT Secretary General Wilson Sossion. He now wants both the KCPE and KCSE to be postponed to 2021 following disruptions to the education sector occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic.
KNUT Secretary General Wilson Sossion. He now wants both the KCPE and KCSE to be postponed to 2021 following disruptions to the education sector occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic.

The group also holds that well laid plans must be worked out before learning institutions are reopened. This includes fumigation and testing of the learners.

“It is advisable to maintain the closure of Kenyan educational institutions and universities until the number of new cases stabilizes or declines for at least 14 consecutive days, before considerations for phased re-opening begins,” reads the group’s report; in part.

SEE ALSO;

With Uganda set to reopen schools next month, it is highly likely that Kenya may consider going the same direction. But, the lobby says more needs to be done before such a move is undertaken.

“Set up treatment facilities to handle any cases that might arise to ensure access to health services by teachers, lecturers, non-teaching staff and learners…. Provide sustainable supply of Personal Protective Equipment for teachers, workers and students,” the report further adds.

Breaking Education News

Education ministry gives guidelines to schools on employment of teachers and support staff

Leave a comment

The Ministry of education has directed schools to trim their excess staff in order to reduce bloated wage bills. The ministry has at the same time released salaries that teachers (employed by boards of management) and other school workers should earn per month. These latest directives come in the backdrop of schools’ failing to pay their employed workers as a result of the current covid 19 pandemic; that has cut cash flow in the schools.

Some schools have been meeting their staff’s monthly wages while others have opted to send their workers on unpaid leaves. There have been calls to classify BOM staff as vulnerable groups so as to benefit from the government’s cash transfer programme.

“The BOM has decided that you proceed on unpaid compulsory leave effective 1st April, 2020 until the situation improves. We kindly ask you to bear with us as this was not planned and is beyond our control.” reads a memo dispatched to BOM teachers in one of the secondary schools that is facing an unprecedented financial crunch.

SEE ALSO

According to the guidelines released by the Basic Education Principal Secretary, Dr Belio Kipsang, day schools with one stream should only have a maximum of 5 workers while the largest school with 15 streams can only higher not more than 37 workers on BOM terms (See tables below). These guidelines were adapted from the Kilemi Mwiria Task-force Report of 2014.

TABLE 1: STAFFING GUIDELINES FOR DAY SCHOOLS
NO OF STREAMS BURSAR ACCOUNTS CLERK SECRETARY MESSENGER LAB TECHNICIAN ICT TECHNICIAN GROUNDS-MAN CATERESS COOK KITCHEN HANDLER NURSE STORE KEEPER ARTISANS DRIVER LIBRARIAN SECURITY TOTALS
1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 5
2 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 7
3 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 3 11
4 0 2 1 1 2 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 15
5 0 2 1 1 2 1 2 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 16
6 0 2 2 1 2 1 2 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 1 4 19

 

The school nurse should also double up as a matron while recruited artisans should be able to execute multiple tasks (multi-skilled).

TABLE 2: STAFFING GUIDELINES FOR BOARDING SCHOOLS
MESSENGER LAB TECHNICIAN ICT TECHNICIAN GROUNDS-MAN CATERESS COOK KITCHEN HANDLER NURSE STORE KEEPER ARTISANS DRIVER LIBRARIAN SECURITY TOTALS
0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 9
1 1 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 12
1 1 0 2 0 2 2 1 0 0 0 0 4 16
1 2 0 2 0 2 3 1 1 0 1 1 4 22
1 2 0 2 1 3 4 1 1 1 1 1 5 28
1 2 1 3 1 3 4 1 1 2 1 1 6 33
1 3 1 3 1 4 4 1 1 2 1 1 8 37
1 3 2 2 1 4 4 1 1 3 1 1 5 36
1 3 2 2 1 4 4 1 1 3 1 1 6 37
1 3 2 2 1 4 4 1 1 3 1 1 6 37
1 3 2 2 1 4 4 1 1 3 1 1 6 37
1 4 2 2 1 4 4 1 1 3 0 0 6 36
1 4 2 2 1 4 4 1 1 3 0 0 7 37
1 4 2 2 1 4 4 1 1 3 0 0 7 37
1 4 2 2 1 4 4 1 1 3 0 0 7 37

 

Dr Kipsang has also instruted schools to remunerate their staff as per the earlier guidelines (also adapted from the Kilemi Mwiria Task-force Report of 2014) and dispatched to schools. The teaching and non-teaching staffs should be employed on permanent and pensionable terms. the lowest earning worker should pocket Sh9,660 while the highest earner will receive a monthly perk of Sh41,000. But, these salaries are to be pegged on the workers’ qualifications.

TABLE 3: MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR SCHOOLS’ SUPPORT STAFF.
CATEGORY JOB GROUP MINIMUM SALARY MAXIMUM SALARY QUALIFICATIONS
BURSAR K Sh31,020 Sh41,590 CPA III
SECRETARY F, G & H Sh12,210 Sh24,662 secretarial Certificate
MESSENGER D Sh10,380 sh11,370 KCSE Certificate
LAB TECHNICIAN Sh12,510 Sh21,304 Laboratory training
ICT TECHNICIAN F & G Sh12,510 Sh21,304
GROUNDS-MAN C & D Sh9,660 Sh11,370 KCPE certificate
CATERESS F & G Sh12,510 Sh21,304 KNEC certificate in catering
COOK C & D Sh9,660 Sh11,370 KCSE Certificate
KITCHEN HANDLER C & D Sh9,660 Sh10,380 KCPE certificate
NURSE H & J Sh24,662 Nursing Certificate
STORE KEEPER F, G & H Sh12,510 Sh21,304 Store keeping certificate
SECURITY C & D Sh9,660 Sh11,370 KCPE certificate

 

Breaking Education News

Here is the assessment schedule for schools per County ahead of schools’ reopening

Leave a comment

The Ministry of Education is carrying out a schools’ preparedness assessment programme ahead of reopening. Ministry of education officials will be visiting individual schools to see if schools are ready for reopening amid the covid-19 pandemic.

Visiting officials will use this guide during the assessment process. See here; Reopening of schools; Education Ministry releases final requirements for schools to meet.

In Machakos County, the exercise will be carried out between September 9 and 22, 2020 as shown in the tables below;

PRIMARY SCHOOLS’ ASSESSMENT PROGRAMME

ASSESSMENT DATE PRIMARY SCHOOLS
14/09/2020 Makutano AIC
14/09/2020 Makutano DEB
14/09/2020 Yikiatine citizennewsline.co.ke
14/09/2020 Mbaani
14/09/2020 Kingatuani
14/09/2020 Embui
15/09/2020 Kithangaini
15/09/2020 Mbaikini
15/09/2020 Kwamutula
16/09/2020 Muthetheni
16/09/2020 Mavitini
16/09/2020 Mutendeu
16/09/2020 Miu DEB
16/09/2020 Kithuia
17/09/2020 Kabaa citizennewsline.co.ke
17/09/2020 Makiliva
17/09/2020 Kundu
17/09/2020 Mbiuni DEB
18/09/2020 Kitile
18/09/2020 kivauni
18/09/2020 Ikalaasa
18/09/2020 Kiundwani
18/09/2020 Kilala HGM
21/09/2020 Ikumini citizennewsline.co.ke
21/09/2020 Syathani
21/09/2020 Mwala DEB
21/09/2020 Itumbini
21/09/2020 kavunyu
22/09/2020 Kikaso

Read also;

ASSESSMENT PROGRAMME FOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS

ASSESSMENT DATE SECONDARY SCHOOLS
14/09/2020 Makutano Boys
14/09/2020 Masii Girls
14/09/2020 Mbaani Secondary
14/09/2020 embui Secondary
15/09/2020 St. Mary’s School Kithangaini Secondary
15/09/2020 Mbaikini Boys High School
15/09/2020 AIC Kwamutula Secondary
16/09/2020 Muthetheni Girls
16/09/2020 Kimuuni Secondary
16/09/2020 Muthetheni Mixed
16/09/2020 Miu Boys
17/09/2020 St. Michael Kabaa High School
17/09/2020 St. Marks Kundu
17/09/2020 St. Augustine Mumbuni
17/09/2020 St. Augustine Mbiuni
17/09/2020 St. Anthony Makiliva
17/09/2020 Kabaa Mixed
18/09/2020 Kitile Secondary
18/09/2020 Kinbauni Secondary
18/09/2020 Ikalaasa
18/09/2020 Kiundwani
18/09/2020 Kilala
21/09/2020 Bishop Ndingi
21/09/2020 Kalolemi
21/09/2020 kamwala
21/09/2020 Mwala School
21/09/2020 Mwala Girls
22/09/2020 Kikaso Secondary
Breaking Education News

CS Magoha in parliament, today: Full account of what he said

Leave a comment

Emabakasi East Member of parliament, Hon. Babu Owino, has come under fire for ‘teaching’ with qualifications. The Law maker who has already run a mathematics lesson for KCSE students on his Facebook account has been warned that whatever he is doing is illegal.

The warning shot was issued by the education Principal Secretary Dr. Belio Kipsang when he met with the Departmental Committee on Education on Thursday morning.

“Anybody who is offering to teach students without being qualified is undertaking an illegality, and so is anyone circulating e-learning information that is not approved by KICD..All the content of learning delivered to students must be Approved by the KICD, whether for online learning or physical learning. And every teacher must be Qualified,” said Dr. Kipsang.

The flamboyant politician is offering more lessons in coming weeks.

One of Babu Owino’s online lessons advertisement.

The Education Cabinet Secretary Prof. George Magoha was however in support of schools and teachers charging parents for online services rendered.

“When it comes to charging of Online lessons offered by teachers, let them engage the parents and agree on favorable terms. I think there is nothing wrong with charging for services delivered,” the CS explained.

Brookhouse international school has been on the limelight for forcing parents to pay full fees even when much of the physical learning time has been lost due to the current closure of learning institutions to prevent further spread of Covid-19 disease.

E-learning is very new to me and you; but very necessary now.

The CS noted that the current E-learning is very new to him just like it is to everybody else but he was quick to point out that it can not be used to replace physical teaching.

“E-learning is just as new to me as it is to all of you. The gov’t has been very clear that when schools re-open, we will take it from where we left,” said the CS.

An assurance that was further emphasized by PS Kipsang.

“We can assure you that nothing we are doing now will replace the inter-personal relationships of learners and teachers, and when physical learning resumes, every child will still have an equal opportunity… We are trying to mitigate the impacts of this pandemic, and to deal with the new normal that we find ourselves in. We already have an emergency plan set up to improve the coping mechanisms.” reassured the PS.

“We are trying to mitigate the impacts of this pandemic, and to deal with the new normal that we find ourselves in. We already have an Emergency plan set up to improve the coping mechanisms,” he added.

Magoha defended the online teaching saying it was the only feasible option if going by the current crisis created by the covid-19 pandemic is anything to go by. He turned down a request by Nyamira County Women Representative who wanted to know if it is possible for the government to stop all these Online learning programmes so that all our children are equal when they resume physical learning.

“We do not advocate for teacher-learner contact even from home, since we do not what to put anyone at risk of infecting the other with COVID-19…The government at this time, will not consider stopping e-learning. Our children who are able to access the virtual learning will continue to get, despite others not being able to.

Related news

Dr. Kipsang on his part noted that the current e-learning system has its own shortcomings, though.

“This pandemic came at a time that we may have not prepared for all eventualities, that is why some of our Special Needs children might not have sufficient E-learning materials,” the PS explained.

Committee chair, Hon Melly, was concerned about ‘a majority of the Kenyan children who are not getting these online learning materials, and they are the majority.

The International Commission of Jurists, ICJ, has urged the government to provide learners with electronic gadgets and internet services.

But CS Magoha thinks otherwise.

“If you go to any secondary school, you will be shocked. It is only that we do not allow them. If we allowed them to carry phones to school, you will realise that all the secondary school students have smart phones,” stated Magoha.

On the safety of learners and teachers once learning resumes, the CS said an elaborate plan is in place.

“We will be following the Outlined COVID-19 guidelines when schools resume. And there will be a whole budget line to cater for this,” reported the CS.

It remains to be seen the plans that the Ministry has come up with ahead of the announced reopening date in June. On his part, the CS was quick to rule out any hasty decision in reopening the schools any time soon.

“It is too early to give any specific dates. In the meantime, the calendar for the national exams remains. If the situation changes, we will reopen schools… Our children are alive and safe at home. It is not only in Kenya where this pandemic is happening. If it means they will be staying at home for one year, then so be it. Don’t create a metal pipe and force me into it asking me to give you dates,” Magoha outlined.

Breaking Education News

Unfairly dismissed by TSC, Having problems with Knec, Helb? Here is all that you should do

Leave a comment

KCSE news- Have you been struggling to get your Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) documents from your former secondary school? Many people are undergoing trauma for failing to get their documents from rogue principals who demand for full fees clearance before releasing them. But, here is an insight of what you need to do. Not only KNEC related problems that can be solved, you can equally get assistance on Helb and TSC related problems. See how to go about it.

“I hereby wish to inform your highly esteemed office that after your intervention, the documents were released…May you continue serving Kenyans with the same zeal,” these were the words of Ms. Susan Njeri following the release of her daughter’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) results slip and certificate by a secondary school.

According to Ms. Njeri, her daughter attended Graceland Girls School in Kieni East, Nyeri County, and sat for her KCSE in 2012. However, the school refused to release the results slip and the KCSE certificate on grounds that she had not cleared fee arrears. The school, according to her, had purported to offer sponsorship to students but during the final year of her daughter’s study reneged and demanded that the parents should pay school fees.

Determined to have her daughter pursue higher education, Ms. Njeri pleaded with the principal of the school to release the documents on an understanding that she would clear the fee arrears in installments but her request was declined. This pushed her to make a follow up with the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) and the Ministry of Education but eight years later she did not get any assistance, a matter that caused untold suffering to the daughter as she could not pursue college education. The unresponsiveness by the institutions prompted her to lodge a complaint with the Ombudsman Commission (The Commission on Administrative Justice) in August 2020.

See also; How to replace a lost KNEC Certificate; Procedure for KCSE, KCPE certificate replacement

The Commission by a way of inquiry took up the issue with the Principal Secretary, State Department of Early Learning and Basic Education leading to the release of the documents. The Department through a letter to the Commission on 12th February 2021 confirmed the release of the documents.

“This is to inform you that the matter has been resolved and the certificate that has been withheld has already been released to the complainant. Copies of the KCSE certificate and the transcript together with the complainant’s personal identification card have been attached for your record purposes,” read the letter from the Department.

More help

In yet another case of timely help, a Kenyan citizen who has been making information requests to government agencies has applauded the Commission’s efforts in enabling him access information.

Walter had made information requests to the Higher Education Loans Board and challenged the decision to charge Ksh1,000 non-beneficiaries of its loans whenever they apply for clearance certificates. This requirement was later dropped.

Similarly, he applied for information from the Kenya National Examinations Council and challenged its decision to stop re-issuance of lost examinations certificates. Consequently, the examinations body changed its policy and is now re-issuing lost certificates.

“I have other active applications and day by day I am seeing results,” Walter wrote in an appreciation email to the Commission.

Under the Access to information Act, 2016, every citizen has a right to access information held by public agencies and some private organisations. The Commission is the oversight and enforcement agency.

How to contact the Ombudsman.

You can launch a complaint against a public office or public officer from which/whom you sought services that were not rendered or that were delayed, or the officer was unprofessional, rude or disrespectful to you or other members of public.

In case you are having troubles accessing your KNEC documents or any other complaint just contact the Ombudsman through the following channels:

  • Head Office physical location: 2nd Floor, West End Towers; Opposite Aga Khan High School off Waiyaki Way – Westlands
  • Postal address:P.O. Box 20414 – 00200 NAIROBI.
  • Telephone: +254-20-2270000/2303000/2603765/2409574/0777 125818 / 0800221349 (Toll free)
  • Email : info@ombudsman.go.ke
  • Website: https://www.ombudsman.go.ke/

All the services offered by the Ombudsman are free of charge.

Complaints can be made through the following means:

  1. Visiting any of the Commission’s offices (Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Isiolo, and Eldoret) in person;
  2. Calling toll free number, 0800221349 or 020 2270000;
  3. Texting short code number, 15700 (Safaricom Subscribers);
  4. Writing a letter through P. O. Box 20414, 00200, Nairobi;
  5. Writing an email to complain@ombudsman.go.ke;
  6. Visiting any of the following Huduma Centres: Kakamega, Bungoma, Nyeri, Embu, Kajiado, Nakuru, Kisii, Mombasa, Kisumu and Nairobi (Teleposta Towers).
  7. Filling an online complaint form on our website found here

And even more and more assistance from the Ombudsman

A teacher was finally issued with the Higher Education Board’s (HELB) clearance following the intervention of the Commission in a matter of double deduction.

According to Paul Magolo, he repaid his HELB loan in lump sum in February 2020 through a direct deposit but despite clearing his loan, the board’s records still showed he had a balance which led to two months’ subsequent deduction on his salary even after raising the same with the board. The continuous deduction prompted him to lodge a complaint with the Commission.

The Commission took up the matter with the Chief Executive Officer of the board who confirmed that Magolo had paid KES. 43,400 for his loan clearance but the stoppage of monthly deductions was not effected by the Teachers Service Commission.

“I wish to inform you that I have received a communication from HELB with a clearance certificate. I have cleared my loan and my account has been closed,” said Mr. Magolo in a letter to the Commission.

A university student whose misdirected HELB Loan was recovered after a three-year wait heaped a lot of praise to the Ombudsman.

“My issue has been finally resolved; I would like to express my gratitude to the Commission for the help,” these were the words of Ms. Jennifer Parsitau a final year student at Moi University.

According to Ms. Parsitau, she applied for the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) loan for her first year study in 2016 and the Board approved her request for a loan of Kshs35,000. However, on 5th May 2016, the Board inadvertently transferred Kshs26,500 to a wrong bank account.

Ms. Parsitau was concerned that the money was talking ages to hit her account forcing her to raise the issue with the lender. However, three years later, no help was coming as her first year’s disbursement had not been redirected to the correct account despite the Board transmitting the subsequent three years’ loan disbursements to the right account. The inordinate delay and the unresponsiveness of the HELB to have the issue resolved forced her to lodge a complaint with the Commission on 31st October, 2019.

The Commission by way of inquiry took up the issue with the Chief Executive Officer of HELB. The Board in a letter to the Commission on 12th November, 2019, admitted to the error that it blamed on the unresponsiveness of the involved bank in correcting the anomaly by redirecting the money to the correct account.

In a letter to the Commission dated 7th February, 2020, the Board confirmed that the money had been redirected to Ms. Parsitau account bringing to an end her agonising three year wait.

Diploma Certificate Issued after Six-Year wait

“I would like to express my gratitude to your office for the assistance; I (recently) received a call to collect my Diploma Certificate from the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC). Words alone cannot explain how happy I am to hold a Diploma Certificate after six years of waiting,” these are the words of Mr. James Nyaikamba, a former student of the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA).

According to Mr. Nyaikamba, he was a student at Technology Development Centre, NITA-Athi River where he undertook a Diploma in Information Technology and completed his studies in 2012. However, six years later the institution had not issued his final certificate even after making several follow ups with the institution. The registrar in 2018 informed him that the institution had failed to collect his certificate from KNEC and he was advised to deposit Ksh. 5,000 into the KNEC’s account to facilitate the processing of the certificate.

Mr. Nyaikamba complied by depositing the amount into KNEC’s account and submitted the original receipt to the institution to facilitate the processing of the certificate. However, he later learnt from KNEC that the institution did not submit the receipt, instead the institution admitted that the original receipt was lost. The failures of NITA subjected James to untold suffering since KNEC could not process the certificate without the original receipt and he was also finding it hard to apply for jobs and further his education without the certificate. The continued suffering forced James to lodge a complaint with the Commission.

The Commission by way of inquiry took up the matter with the Ag. Director General of NITA and the Ag. Chief Executive Officer of KNEC leading to the processing and release of the diploma certificate.

Pensions processed after 14 years’ wait

The Pensions Department is one of the public institutions most complained against to the Ombudsman. This is because many retirees and beneficiaries undergo too much suffering owing to undue delay in the processing and payment of their benefits. This is the story of a former teacher who can now enjoy his pension benefits after a 14-year wait thanks to the intervention of the Commission.

According to Mr. Francis Nyongesa, he retired on 30th June 2005 from the Teachers Service Commission(TSC)and his personal file was transmitted to the Pensions Department for processing of his pension where he was issued with a pension number. However, it was a long wait as his pension was not being processed subjecting him to untold suffering due to the inordinate delay. This prompted him to lodge a complaint with the Commission.

The Commission by way of inquiry took up the issue with the Pensions Department on 22nd October 2018. The Department responded indicating that they had initiated the computation of Mr. Nyongesa’s pension when his file got misplaced. The Commission asked the Department to give due consideration to the matter and on 30th November 2019, they responded indicating that Mr. Nyongesa had been introduced in the November payroll and his pension paid.

Breaking Education News

Education Ministry gives new guidelines on Nemis

Leave a comment
Latest Education news– Schools have been given up to the end of March so as to capture all learners in the National Education Management Information System, Nemis. The Ministry now says disbursements of funds to public schools will be entirely via Nemis. Whereas the system has always been used for secondary schools, the scenario has been different for primary schools. Since the inception of Free Primary Education in 2003, the Ministry of Education has been using a computer program that heavily relies on manual input of school data into the program by officers from the Ministry of Education headquarters to disburse funds to public primary schools. This mode of disbursement has been prone to errors as a result of faulty capturing of data required for capitation by officers in the headquarters. Under the NEMIS system, all the data is captured at the source and individual headteachers are responsible for any data regarding their school, this minimises chances of human error and any changes required are made by the headteachers thus ensuring continuous update of data. The Directorate of Primary Education intends to change the mode of FPE disbursement to NEMIS system from the current system one with effect from April 2021. To guarantee that their schools are not disadvantaged, the Ministry has asked head teachers to ensure that data on all their pupils is captured in them NEMIS platform by 30th March 2021. Learners without birth certificates can still be captured on the NEMIS system.

HOW TO UPDATE THE LEARNER’S BIO DETAILS ON NEMIS.

  1. Visit the NEMIS portal at http://nemis.education.go.ke
  2. Log onto the system by using the official log in credentials; User Name and Password.
  3. Once logged in, click on ‘Form one Admission/ Reported List’
  4. The ‘REPORTED STUDENT LIST’ will be displayed.
  5. Click on ‘BIO DATA’ to update the details for each learner.
  6. Fill in the Basic, Contact and Special Needs Details for the learner. Save the changes.
  7. Repeat procedure 5 and 6; until details for all the admitted learners are captured.

Here are links to the most important news portals:

The ‘LEARNER’ tab, on the NEMIS window, can also be used to carry out the following learner related operations:
  1. PENDING REGISTRATION: View a list of learners whose Registration is pending. These are learners whose details have not been entered as required i.e missing some information like their photographs.
  2. VIEW MY LEARNERS: A menu used to view the list of all learners whose details have been fully updated on the NEMIS system.
  3. LIST OF ADMISSION REQUESTS: Shows the list of admission requests as uploaded onto the NEMIS system for approval by the Ministry of Education’s field officers.
  4. LIST OF PROCESSED ADMISSION REQUESTS: To display the list of learners whose admission requests have been approved by the Ministry of Education’s Field officers.
  5. RECEIVE LEARNER: Used to admit a continuing learner; who has transferred from another school.
  6. RELEASE LEARNER: Used to transfer a learner to join another school after the transfer has been granted by the Education Ministry’s Field Officers.

SCHOOL FEES CAPITATION FOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS

In total each learner in all public schools receives Sh22,244 per year under the government’s Free Day Secondary Education (FDSE) program. Of this Sh9,400 goes into operations including Personal Emoluments (Salaries and wages for BOM staff).

 TABLE SHOWING THE FDSE Structure

S/NO. ITEM AMOUNT (KES)
1 Tuition 4,144.00
2 Medical/ Insurance 2,000.00
3 Activity 1,500.00
4 SMASSE 200.00
5 Other Vote Heads 9,400.00
6 Maintenance and Improvement 5,000.00
7 Grand Total 22,244.00
Other vote heads: local travel and transport, Administration, Electricity, Personnel emolument.
Breaking Education News

Government will not pay fees for private schools’ learners- Magoha says

Leave a comment

Education cabinet secretary Prof. George Magoha has put the record straight concerning school fees payments. The CS was responding to concerns over plea by parents with kids in public schools to reduce school fees once schools reopen. There have also been complains by parents in private schools after they were asked to pay full fees.

While appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on education, the CS said there is no need for parents with kids in public schools.

‘The government pays fees for Tuition and Examination for all Pupils and Students in Primary and Secondary schools, so there is nothing to waive,” the CS said.

Related news
Fees for private schools.

A request by the members of parliament for the ministry to extend free education fee waiver to private school was turned down by the CS.

“It is very difficult that the government still has to extend the money from the exchequer for tuition to private schools too, despite the parents’ choice to leave the free government schools for the private schools. we may need to reconsider this,” Magoha clarified.

Parents with children in an international private school in Nairobi are seeking the court’s intervention over what they term as exorbitant fee demands by private schools. It is Brookhouse school that has majorly faced the wrath of parents who saythey are being forced to meet the full cost of electricity, food, internet, printing assignments, teaching, and supervising children during the current closure as result of the covid-19 pandemic.

BrookHouse international School; one of the leading private school in the country.

The private schools have been running online tuition for learners and asking parents to meet the fee costs. But Education CS George Magoha restates that schools will remain closed till June 4 and that the Government will review the situation before advising the public of the next step regarding the start of second term.

School fees for public schools. Read details here:

School fee charged by Brookhouse school ranges between Sh150,000 and Sh1.5 million per term depending on the class of the learner.

Join us on Facebook. Like our page https://web.facebook.com/educationnewshub.co.ke/

Breaking Education News

Babu Owino takes KCSE candidates through revision in Maths, promises to extend to Chemistry

Leave a comment

Embakasi East Member of parliament Hon. Babu Owino on Friday evening held a mathematics lesson live on his Facebook page. In a live-stream, followed by over 8,000 users, the MP offered revision tips for Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education, KCSE, candidates.

Dressed in a smart navy blue suit and a white shirt, the Legislator tackled tackled problems from various topics to the surprise of many. His page was lit with congratulatory messages as he tactfully handled the problems.

“We are ready to proceed at 1pm.stay tuned on my Facebook page Babu Owino which is a verified account,” the lawmaker had stated prior to his live broadcast; referring to himself as Prof. Babu. And, true to his word, he did not disappoint when the hour came.

And when the time came, the MP solved problems from such mathematics topics as Differentiation, Trigonometry, Surds, Further logarithms, Algebraic expressions and Calculus.

“This is one thing which makes Babu Owino different from the rest. Intelligence,” wrote an online user.

“I was locked in and indeed I was amazed. Still understanding those mathematics. Long live Babu,” another said.

Related News:
More Lessons

The flamboyant politician had earlier sensationally asked education CS Prof. George Magoha to surrender this year’s KCSE exam scripts to him for vetting before candidates can tackle them; an assertion his still reiterated during his live broadcast.

“And this is more reason why I told the Ministry of education to bring the papers in my office for verification because I am over qualified,” boasted the MP.

Hon. Babu Owino prior to his lesson on Facebook.

The MP has promised to broadcast more lessons in the coming weeks; in Chemistry and Mathematics.

“Next time we will do chemistry, from next week. We will also proceed with mathematics. I will be communicating the days. But, this time round we will be handling mathematics topic wise. We will be dealing with a topic and then questions,” he said.

The Ministry of education through the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development, KICD, is offering electronic lessons via various platforms.

“Learning experiences at home should take place to reinforce what is learnt in school,” says the KICD.

Breaking Education News

Here are the Schools’ reopening dates for continuation of Term one, 2020: Uganda’s Education Minister announces new dates

Leave a comment

The Minister for Education and Sports in Uganda, Janet Museveni, has announced the schools’ reopening dates for continuation of first term of 2020. This follows a directive to close all schools for 30 days (effective Friday March 20, 2020) by the Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni in order to combat the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

The east African Country that is currently on a total lock down, will see its learners going back to class, soon. “Pre-primary, primary, secondary schools and Primary Teachers’ Colleges will open for the continuation of Term I on 27th April 2020 up to 12th June 2020. Term 2: 22nd June to 4th September and Term 3: 21st September to 19th December 2020, in case everything goes as planned,” says Janet who is also Uganda’s First Lady since 1986.

“God willing, Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions, including BTVET institutions will open the Continuation of the current Semester on 2nd May 2020,” she added.

FOR A COMPLETE GUIDE TO ALL SCHOOLS IN KENYA CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW;

Here are links to the most important news portals:

First Lady and Minister of Education Janet Museveni also said exams for this term (term one 2020) are called off. “There shall be no formal test or examinations at the end of Term 1. All the time should be used for teaching and learning. Cumulative end of topic class-based results should be used on end of term reports. Candidates shall do only ONE school generated Mock Examinations at the end of Term 2. Therefore all schools are herewith barred from engaging students in any externally set mock examinations this year, to ensure syllabus recovery time is not wasted,” noted Janet who has been Cabinet Minister of Education and Sports in the Ugandan Cabinet, since 6 June 2016.

While making the announcements on Live TV on Saturday night, Mrs Museveni at the same time warned universities forcing students to take examinations online; saying such examinations have been suspended. “We have received several complaints/concerns that some Universities are forcing students to pay for and do online Examinations during this period, yet quite a number of our students do not have the required facilities and the money to do this. We have therefore, decided that all these Examinations be suspended until we are out of this crisis,” she directed.

According to Mrs Museveni, her Ministry will organize lessons and has secured free learning airtime on radio to engage learners lacking requisite internet access equipment. We will send out a harmonized continuous learning program for all Primary and Secondary school learners to all Local Governments and Association of Secondary School Headteachers of Uganda (ASSHU), where selected teachers will use Local Radios which can be accessed by most learners and TVs where possible. The teaching will focus on core basic concepts in what learners have already covered. This will be supplemented with printed material wherever possible,” reported the Minister.

In the neighbouring country, Kenya, the Ministry is yet to give a notice as to when schools are set to reopen. Some schools have in fact been identified and prepared as possible COVI-19 isolation centres. 

Also read;
Breaking Education News

CS Magoha Magoha’s latest news on schools’ reopening, KCSE and KCPE exams

Leave a comment

Education Cabinet Secretary Prof. George Magoha has issued a strong warning to parents and the public over discussions on school reopening and fees; saying the safety of learners is of paramount importance. The CS said schools will remain closed till June 4 and that the Government will review the situation before advising the public of the next step regarding the start of second term.

“The children should enjoy their holidays and the schools shall remain closed effective 4th of this month to 4th of next month (June, 2020),” he said.

But, the CS was quick to point out that they will not rush into reopening of the schools saying such a decision will involve a number of stake holders.

“So, if and when we are going to make the pronouncements to either shift the calendar or open schools, we shall wait for the appropriate time, which has not arrived. That opportunity will come as we together look at what government is doing” he explained.

National Examinations and the school calendar

On the 2020 KCSE and KCPE examinations, Prof. Magoha was categorical that the government has not decided to post-pone the tests yet.

“Even up to this point, the government has not decided to postpone the national examinations,” Magoha said.

Embakasi East MP, Babu Owino: “As the secretary general of kenya young parlimentarians, the cabinet secretary education Professor George Albert Magoha Omori must submit in my office those exam papers (KCPE and KCSE) in advance so that i can verify if they have tested what has not been taught.”

Read also;

He wondered why parents were haggling about school fees at a point when the Country is grappling with the covid-19 pandemic.

“It is also very disturbing to hear the parents and the public only discussing about school opening and haggling about fees. It is important to remember that this is a medical crisis, not an economic crisis. The economic aspect is on the side and we must control the medical crisis first,” a physically agitated Magoha said.

Magoha warned Kenyans to be wary of the corona virus saying it is too early to celebrate on the successes of keeping the virus at bay. The CS took an opportunity to school Kenyans hon how masks should be worn.

He further said that the government will treat every child as equal and that ‘every child will be given content that he (/she) did not have’. His pronunciation on schools’ reopening date has effectively put a stop to academies that have been issuing second term school fee notes to parents and guardians.

The CS was speaking during the daily briefing session by the government on the status of the covid-19 pandemic in the country.

FOR A COMPLETE GUIDE TO ALL SCHOOLS IN KENYA CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW;

Here are links to the most important news portals:

Breaking Education News

The missing 2020 form one students; CS Magoha leads drive to find them

Leave a comment

The Ministry of Education has today stated that a total of 150,000 form ones are yet to report to secondary school. This is despite the fact that the January 24, 2020 reporting deadline has elapsed. According the Ministry only 80 percent of the learners who sat for the 2019 KCPE examination have reported to their schools of choice. The Ministry now says it will launch a mop up campaign to find the missing learners and ensure 100 percent transition.

Here is an excerpt of a presser from the Education Cabinet Secretary Prof George Magoha;

“Reporting dates for all Form One students were between 13th January, 2020 and 24th January, 2020. By 12pm today, 852,000 learners (80 per cent) of the 1,075,000 candidates who sat KCPE in 2019 had reported to secondary schools countrywide.
Reports from all parts of the country indicate that large numbers of students have flocked to various schools ahead of today’s 5pm reporting deadline.

We therefore expect the figures to rise to the peak by the end of today when we compile final figures.
Although these are commendable admission levels, it is projected that we could still have about 150,000 candidates who may not beat the deadline of reporting. These will include candidates of private schools and those who reported to schools that they had not been selected to, thereby missing out on the NEMIS data capture.

I am happy that some counties have already hit the 100 per cent mark as I will outline
shortly. Some schools have also registered 100 percent transition, induding the State
House Girls (where we are), which has registered all the candidates who were selected to join the institution, including a class of 95 day scholars.

Some of the reasons for the low transition in these counties include:

  • Repetitions- some children opted to repeat Class 8
  • Some learners opted to join TVET institutions
  • Early marriages and teenage pregnancies

To ensure we achieve the 100 per cent transition rates, the Government will, from tomorrow (Saturday January 25, 2020) start a countrywide mop up campaign to trace all candidates who are yet to report to schools. I have consulted with the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government and Teachers Service Commission and resolved to engage jointly in the mop up campaign. We have directed our field officers to comb all their regions to find the candidates who are yet to report to schools and ensure that they are enrolled in the schools they were placed in.

Candidates at the sub-county levels should report to day schools nearest to them. During this period, Principals and Head Teachers should enhance support services to help young mothers selected to their schools to enrol, focus on learning and minimize distractive practices. All education officials in all counties should map out the 2019 KCPE candidates from their regions and make special arrangements for them to join Form One.

During this mop up exercise, and to address socio-cultural barriers to secondary education, national administrative arms will work with county and sub-county education
officials to ensure that no child is locked out of secondary education for any reason. Over the period, Ministry officials will file accurate daily returns on the status of reporting to schools until we attain the 100% transition.

It is the constitutional right of every Kenyan child to acquire free and compulsory basic
education. The Ministry will generate lists of unreported students per Sub County for
purposes of tracking them and ensuring that they are admitted accordingly. The head
teachers of respective schools where the students sat the KCPE are therefore called upon to make available all the vital information to aid the process of ensuring that all students enroll in secondary schools.”

FOR A COMPLETE GUIDE TO ALL SCHOOLS IN KENYA CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW;

Here are links to the most important news portals:

 REPORTING STATISTICS PER COUNTY

Only Murang’a, Nyeri, Nairobi, Vihiga and Tharaka Nithi counties surpassed the 100% transition mark. Worst hit (with low transition rates) are Kilifi, West Pokot, Samburu, Marsabit and Tana River.

The CS has, in the past few days, led a door to door campaign to actualize the 100 percent initiative. Here is a collation of the images showing the efforts by the CS (Images/ Courtesy):

Also read:

SPONSORED LINKS; YOUR GUIDE TO HIGHER EDUCATION

For a complete guide to all universities and Colleges in the country (including their courses, requirements, contacts, portals, fees, admission lists and letters) visit the following, sponsored link:

SPONSORED IMPORTANT LINKS:
Breaking Education News

Universities to be reopened next week

Leave a comment

Education Cabinet Secretary Prof. George Magoha has ordered for reopening of universities and colleges across the country. Through a press statement, the CS said the institutions of higher learning will have a phased reopening with effect from Monday, 5th October, 2020.

Here is the full press statement from the CS;

REOPENING OF UNIVERSITIES & TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS

Pursuant to the Presidential Directive issued during the Twelfth (12th) Presidential Address to the Nation on the Coronavirus Pandemic which was delivered by His Excellency the President on Monday, 28th September, 2020, and following broad-based stakeholder
consultations, the Ministry of Education notifies the public that the progressive re-opening of education institutions will commence with the re-opening of universities and tertiary institutions with effect from Monday, 5th October, 2020.

The specifics of the same are as follows:

  • The examination classes of Teachers Training Colleges (TTCS) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions will report on Monday, 5th October, 2020;
  • The Boards of the TTCs and the TVETS will announce the resumption date for in-person learning for other classes, with priority being accorded to students undertaking practical courses;
  • Final Year Students in all Universities and their Constituent Colleges will report on Monday, 5th October, 2020; and
  • The respective University Councils and their Senates will announce the date for resumption of in-person learning for students in other academic classes, with priority being accorded to those undertaking science-based courses.

Safe resumption of in-person learning in all Universities and Tertiary Institutions requires utmost fidelity to the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 protocols and guidelines. Guided by those protocols and guidelines, it is directed THAT:

  • All learning institutions will be required to mandatorily enforce strict adherence to the COVID-19 health and safety protocols, which include; monitoring of the body temperature for all learners and all other persons accessing the institutions,
    observance of high levels of hygiene, handwashing/use of sanitizers, and the adoption of innovative approaches to uphold the guidelines on physical and social distancing and the use of face masks/shields;
  • All Universities and tertiary institutions that had been designated as quarantine centres shall be fumigated under the supervision of the Ministry of Health prior to their re-opening;
  • All universities and tertiary institutions must be linked to a health facility prior to being re-opened;
  • All learning institutions shall provide psychosocial and spiritual support to learners and staff during the subsistence of the current pandemic;
  • Councils/Boards and Vice-Chancellors/Principals shall ensure full compliance with the guidelines and protocols issued by the Ministry of Health; failure to which their respective institutions will be closed for breaching those health protocols and guidelines; and
  • Education officials, in conjunction with Public Health Officials, will continuously monitor and review the levels of compliance with respect to the aforementioned measures.
Breaking Education News

Education Ministry introduces online learning

Leave a comment

It is back to class for learners as the Ministry of Education introduces Electronic Learning services. Though schools have been closed as a result of the Coronavirus disease outbreak in the country, thousands of learners will be forced to turn to various digital platforms as announced by the Ministry.

“Following the closure of learning institutions, in line with the Presidential directive on containment of the Coronavirus, 15 million primary and secondary school learners are now at home and need guidance on home-based learning,” Says Prof George Magoha; the Education Cabinet Secretary.

According to Magoha, E-learning programmes will be available effective Monday March 23, 2020. “The Ministry of Education has, therefore, found it necessary to step up measures to facilitate learning during the period that learners will be at home. Beginning Monday 23d March, 2020, the Ministry will enhance curriculum delivery through 4 different platforms Radio, TV, You-Tube and the Kenya Education Cloud,” he adds.

In the released schedule, the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) will broadcast radio programmes daily, from Monday to Friday, through Radio Taifa and English Service.

FOR A COMPLETE GUIDE TO ALL SCHOOLS IN KENYA CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW;

Here are links to the most important news portals:

Radio Programmes

Radio Taifa lessons will run from 10a.m to 11a.m. The English Service lessons will run from 9.15 a.m to 12 o’clock, and from 2.00p.m to 4.00p.m. The broadcasts will also be available on Iftini FM and Transworld in Garissa, Mandera and Wajir Counties.

Apart from Radio Programmes, Lessons will also be transmitted on the KICD-owned Edu-Channel, which is available on Signet Free to air. Edu-Channel broadcast programme line up will be available in the www.kicd.ac.ke.

All programme content broadcast through the Edu-TV Channel can be accessed on youtube @edutvKenya (livestreamed or recorded).

Apart from accessing lessons, learners can obtain digital content of all KICD approved materials from the Kenya Education Cloud. The digital content is available online through www.kec.ac.ke.

“The Ministry is determined to ensure that all learners access relevant materials to enable them remain in pace with the curriculum calendar, to the extent possible,” says the CS.

Schools and other learning institutions have been closed in order reduce further spread of the deadly virus.

BEST LINKS TO TSC SERVICES & DOCUMENTS; ONLINE

 For all details about other schools in Kenya, please visit the link below;

Breaking Education News

KICD and Startimes Kenya in partnership to provide education content to learners

Leave a comment

The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development, KICD, has entered into a partnership with pay TV company, Startimes, to broadcast online lessons to learners. The partnership will see StarTimes Kenya provide access to KICD approved curriculum on their digital television platform. The same materials will also be available on the company’s mobile application, StarTimes ON. The content will at the same time relayed on various TV channels available on Startimes.

Dr. Sara Ruto, the Chairperson KICD Council, said the new move will see learners access learning materials conveniently and that this is expected to broaden the coverage area; and this would see more households covered.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has pointed out a new feature of digital learning, we need to embrace it for the sake of our children and together we will be able to grow. One of the core competencies in the Competency-Based Curriculum is learning to learn, this is an opportune moment to put it to practice with such partners key in enriching the future of learning,” said Dr Sara Ruto while making the partnership public.

Dr. Sara Ruto; the chairperson to Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) Council.

Dr Joel Mabonga, the KICD Acting Chief Executive Officer, was all but praises over the new partnership noting that this would provide the much needed boost in achieving their goals. The CEO welcomed the move noting the partnership will grow the number of platforms available to engage students who are learning at home with the content accessible on the mobile application being a strategic option given the high mobile penetration in the county.

“We need to go out of our ways to make sure that learning continues even under the current Covid-19 situation as we establish strategic partnerships that will help us achieve our mandate as an institute tasked with a national responsibility of developing curricula and curriculum support materials informed by research for all levels of education below the university,” said Dr Mabonga.

“We have partnered with KICD to allow us carry approved education content on our platforms. Currently, we have ensured that EDU Channel is available through our set top boxes as a free to air channel and uploaded approved primary and secondary school curriculum on our StarTimes ON mobile application platform key in ensuring the majority of students have access to the education materials,” said StarTimes Chief Executive Officer Mr. Andy Wang.

The ministry of education together with other partners is relaying TV, radio and online lessons to millions of learners at home in a bid to try and recover lost time; occasioned by the current closure of all learning institutions. Learners continue to follow the interactive online lessons at home tuning to KBC English Service and Radio Taifa for radio programmes and EDU TV channel and the Kenya Education Cloud for interactive lessons.

Get updated May, 2020 time tables in the links below:

List of channels where you can watch Edu TV daily lessons.

Also read;