Kenya Ends Uhuru’s Sh5 Billion Exam Fee Waiver: What It Means for Parents and Students.
The Kenyan government has announced plans to scrap the Sh5 billion exam fee waiver introduced by former President Uhuru Kenyatta. This policy, which has been in place for nearly a decade, ensured that students in public and private schools could sit for national exams without paying registration fees.
Why Is the Waiver Being Scrapped?
The government argues that the waiver is financially unsustainable due to rising student enrollment. Cabinet Secretary for National Treasury and Economic Planning, John Mbadi, stated that the government will adopt a targeted subsidy model. This means only students classified as needy will receive financial assistance.
Mbadi emphasized that parents with children in private schools should be able to afford exam fees. He questioned why taxpayers should cover costs for all students when some families can pay.
Parents will now have to shoulder part of the cost of exam registration. Currently, the government covers the Sh7,200 registration fee per KCSE candidate. Under the new model, parents will contribute a portion of this amount.
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The National Parents Association has raised concerns over the move. Chairperson Silas Obuhatsa warned that some students may be forced out of school due to financial constraints. He called for public participation before implementing the policy.
Government’s Justification
Officials estimate that scrapping the waiver will free up Sh5 billion annually. These funds will be redirected to other education priorities, including infrastructure and teacher salaries.
The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has struggled with budget deficits due to increasing enrollment. The government believes a cost-sharing model will help stabilize funding.
National Assembly Education Committee Chairman Julius Melly has rejected the proposal. He argues that removing the waiver burdens parents already struggling with the high cost of living. He insists that the government should continue funding exam fees until the 8-4-4 curriculum fully transitions out.
The government has yet to outline how neediness will be determined for subsidies. Parents and education stakeholders are pushing for clarity and fairness in the new system.
As Kenya moves toward a cost-sharing education model, families must prepare for additional expenses. The debate continues as policymakers weigh the financial benefits against the impact on students.
Kenya Ends Uhuru’s Sh5 Billion Exam Fee Waiver: What It Means for Parents and Students.