Fees headache, term dates uncertainty as schools reopen

Fees headache, term dates uncertainty as schools reopen

The reopening of schools for the second term is marked by a sense of urgency and uncertainty following a two-week extension of the April holidays due to heavy rains. Concerns loom over the ability to recover lost time, financial constraints, and the fate of thousands of learners in nearly 2,000 schools that may remain closed due to the devastating effects of the heavy rains, which tragically claimed 257 lives.

The Ministry of Education and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) have yet to provide information on any casualties among students or teachers resulting from the adverse weather conditions.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Ministry of Interior announced that schools significantly affected by the rains will delay reopening while repairs are conducted to ensure a safe learning environment. However, there is a lack of clarity from the Ministry of Education regarding guidelines for accommodating affected students.

This partial reopening raises concerns among stakeholders about potential learning gaps and disadvantages for students in areas where schools remain closed, as highlighted by Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) secretary general Collins Oyuu.

Furthermore, the compressed nature of the term adds pressure on teachers to cover the syllabus in a shortened period. Despite calls for schools and teachers to devise methods for recovering lost time, conflicts arise, such as intern teachers threatening to strike over working conditions and disputes over capitation money disbursement.

The uncertainty surrounding financial support exacerbates the challenges faced by school managers in ensuring smooth operations upon reopening.

Amidst these complexities, the education system grapples with the task of ensuring the safety and well-being of students while addressing the academic and logistical hurdles posed by the aftermath of the heavy rains.

Collaboration between government agencies, education stakeholders, and the broader community becomes crucial in navigating these challenges and mitigating the impact on learners and educators alike.

Fees headache, term dates uncertainty as schools reopen