The Ministry of Education has cautioned school administrators against imposing unauthorised levies on parents, warning that principals found flouting government regulations will face disciplinary action.
Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba said schools must not introduce new charges without following the laid-down approval process, which requires the consent of parents and clearance from the Ministry of Education.
Speaking during Education Day celebrations at Mbiriri Comprehensive School in Kieni, Nyeri County, Ogamba said the ministry had already initiated disciplinary measures against several principals accused of imposing illegal levies.
“Where that happens, and it is brought to our attention, we are now taking action against the principals. Unless the levy has been approved, gone through the required process, accepted by parents and cleared under ministry protocols, it should not be charged,” he said.
The CS acknowledged that schools may require additional resources to finance development projects, but emphasised that any proposed contributions must first receive approval through the established procedures before parents can be asked to pay.
The directive comes amid growing concern over reports that some schools have been introducing extra charges outside the government’s approved fee structure, placing an additional financial burden on households.
Ogamba also called on school heads to prioritise dialogue with learners to address the underlying issues contributing to the recent cases of student unrest reported in several schools across the country.
He said fostering open communication between school administrators and students would help resolve grievances before they escalate into unrest, urging education managers to adopt consultative approaches that promote a conducive learning environment.
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