Is better public school performance a threat to private schools?

Education CS Fred Matiang’i. (Photo: Courtesy)

With the improved performance  of public schools, those in the private sector have every reason to worry. For years, parents have been trooping to private schools with their children because of their good performance in national exams. This myth is finally being busted as the good grades posted by pupils from public schools in the 2017 KCPE prove that Government-owned schools are just as good as those run by private individuals.

As an experienced teacher, I can authoritatively state that learners who go to public schools even with lower marks end up performing better in secondary schools and universities since they are used to a tough learning environment. Unknown to many people, the current average teacher in a public school is more equipped with knowledge and skills since most of them have furthered their education.

Most of them apart from their P1 certificates have upgraded their education and are now proud owners of diploma and degree certificates. This may be the reason why the schools are posting improved grades, which generally is an encouraging trend. In developed countries like the United States, public schools are more attractive to learners because they are better equipped and they offer quality education at no cost. Kenya will be in the same league if the Government improves the infrastructure in public schools and pays teachers well. The performance of public schools in 2017 will definitely give owners of private schools sleepless nights.

 

Ms Pkomu is the Mt Elgon Knut woman representative