President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday said he was aware of the anxiety
faced by parents and children regarding the resumption of education in the
country but a way forward will be given soon
Speaking during the Madaraka Day celebrations at State
House, Nairobi, the Head of State said the safety of students is paramount.
He acknowledged that the containment measures announced by
the government, although necessary, have changed how people live.
“I appreciate the anxiety weighing heavy on the minds of
parents and children – particularly those preparing for the national
examinations.
“In that regard, and conscious of the emerging trend of
infections, I direct that the Ministry of Education fast-tracks and finalizes
the ongoing consultations with the stakeholders that will provide an
appropriate calendar for gradual resumption of education in the country,” he
said.
Adding: “The guidelines should also include protocols to be
followed by all learning institutions to guarantee the safety of our children.”
Education CS Prof George Magoha on Friday said he cannot say
when schools will be reopened because there are many factors involved.
While receiving a report from the Education Response
Committee on COVID-19, the CS emphasized that the life of every child matters
and this is not the time to put pressure on the government on whether to
administer exams or not.
“To us, the life of one child is very important; so rather
than thinking so much about exams & learning, teach the child what you know
yourself,” said Magoha.
The CS also said that the unpredictable nature of the
Coronavirus means that schools might be reopened and the number of infections
will go up.
To avoid such a scenario, Magoha said reopening schools next year is an option on the table but consultations are still ongoing.