President Uhuru Kenyatta on Tuesday ordered Education CS Amina Mohamed to surrender and restore the ownership of all church-built schools to the religious institutions.
Speaking during the funeral service of Archbishop Emeritus of Mombasa John Njenga at University of Nairobi grounds, the Head of State directed the Ministry to restore church sponsorship of schools.
He added that the directive should be done within seven days.
“There are many schools built and sponsored by churches. Restore that sponsorship. I have also given a week for all church-owned land and schools to be restored to their rightful owners,” the President directed.
Uhuru noted that the move would restore discipline in schools and help nature responsible citizens.
He described the late Archbishop as a humble man who had dedicated his life to service for others.
"I have had the opportunity to know Archbishop John Njenga almost all my life. He was a man of humility, a man of great humour, a man dedicated to the service of God and to the service of man, not just to satisfy their spiritual needs but also their human needs," he stated.
On his part, Deputy President William Ruto conveyed that Njenga rallied for better education and advocated for unity across the region.
“I’ve seen that feat years ago, the bishop had a conversation with Minister Kiano. I think even as we celebrate his life, we need to revisit that discussion that was there between the State and the church especially on matters to do with the integrity of your education and the morality of our children,” Ruto explained.
The late was among religious leaders who championed for titling of parcels of land where churches had put up schools.
