Following President William Ruto’s direct order, the Ministry of Education has issued strict guidelines ensuring every learner transitioning to Grade 10 reports to their assigned senior school without barriers, even if they lack the new uniform or school fees.
In a swift response to the presidential directive, the Ministry has mandated senior school principals to admit all placed students immediately, eliminating any delays over attire or payments.
Key highlights of the new instructions include:
– Uniform Flexibility: Students without senior school uniforms can join classes wearing their junior school uniforms, allowing seamless transition.
– Zero Fees Condition: No learner will be turned away for unpaid fees. Principals must utilize capitation funds disbursed on January 2, 2026, while giving parents flexible time to settle household contributions.
– Tracing Missing Learners: Junior and senior school heads must urgently report any students not admitted by the January 21 deadline. They will collaborate with Sub-County Directors of Education and local administration officers to trace and place these learners promptly.
The Ministry emphasized that denying admission to any child in a public school is strictly prohibited. Parents and guardians are reminded that failing to present their children for admission is a criminal offense under Section 31 of the Basic Education Act, 2013, punishable by law.
Reports of non-compliance should be directed to the nearest Education Office or National Government Administration Office for swift action.
Additionally, Sub-County Directors have been tasked with collecting and submitting data on all Grade 10 admissions involving junior uniforms or deferred fees to Ministry Headquarters.
This move underscores the government’s commitment to 100% transition under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), ensuring no child is left behind as Kenya’s pioneering Grade 10 cohort begins senior secondary education.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the directive, calling it a timely relief for families facing economic pressures amid the ongoing school reopening.
