CS Magoha: Two options for parents who want school fees refund

CS Magoha: Two options for parents who want school fees refund 

The Education Cabinet Secretary Prof. George Magoha has given two options to parents who want reimbursement for the school fees they paid.

Speaking on Wednesday, CS Magoha directed primary and secondary schools to refund second and third-term school fees to the parents who had already paid.

Alternatively, the education CS also gave parents the option to transfer fees to January 2021 when schools reopen.

The decision to refund the fees came after parents from private schools raised concerns following an announcement by CS Magoha on Tuesday that the 2020 academic year would be considered lost due to COVID-19.

Speaking at the KICD headquarters in Nairobi, Education CS Magoha stated that the schools would reopen when COVID-19 cases reduced 14 consistent days.

"Based on this disturbing trend of COVID-19 cases rising steadily, Education stakeholders have shelved the initial proposal to reopen schools in September for Class 8 and Form 4 learners.

"In consultation with Ministry of Health we have agreed schools to reopen when daily COVID-19 cases reduce consistently for 14 days. Social and physical distancing is the most critical factor in ensuring safety of learners," said the CS.

The education CS also stated that the current KCPE and KCSE candidates would sit for their examinations in 2021.  

"KCPE and KCSE examinations for 2020 will not take place because the current Standard 7 and Form 3 students will, practically, not be able to cover the curriculum load for five terms in one year and sit for the examinations," said CS Magoha.

Also, all learners in Grade 1 to 4, Standard 5 to 7, and Form 1, 2, and 3 will remain in the same classes in 2021.