New rules to boost learning in slums

Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i

Schools in slums will be expected to offer quality education as per the Education ministry's new guidelines.

The guidelines under the Alternative Provision of Basic Education and Training, will also apply to institutions in arid and semi-arid areas where mobile schools are common.

"These guidelines will mainly apply to service providers who support education in the informal settlements within the cities of Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa and urban areas as designated by law," said Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i.

The ministry had not legally recognised the institutions since they did not meet the registration requirements such as acreage, staffing and facilities, among others. The rules are expected to give a lifeline to such schools.

As a result, over half a million children, youth and adults are receiving education in institutions that are operating informally.

The guidelines provide that the institutions shall not only teach approved Kenya Institute for Curriculum Development's syllabus, but also adhere to guidelines for subjects and courses as provided by the Education ministry and must allow for flexibility.

Teachers will also be expected to meet the minimum entry requirements in terms of training.

The rules indicated a minimum 30 per cent of the teachers at the schools shall have obtained a training certificate from a recognised institution at registration.

"The rest must be undertaking recognised in-service training and management of the institution shall progressively ensure that all their teachers are registered with the TSC (Teachers Service Commission) by the third year of registration of the institution," the guidelines read in part.

The schools will be subject to inspection to ensure they offer quality education. The institutions are expected to create a learner-friendly environment. "In particular, the institutions shall strive to ensure that they are health supporting, rights upholding, safe and protective," the document reads in part.

The schools' managements are also expected to maintain learners' welfare, as per the law, and ensure there are adequate sanitation facilities.