Education CS George Magoha spoke on the communal learning program which commenced on Thursday, Augsut 13 while inspecting institutions in Eldoret on Friday, August 14.
Magoha issued a response to teachers and parents who were lamenting on the safety of students and lack of personal protective equipment (PPEs).
Teachers and parents had also raised questions on the confusion facing the program, location of learning venues and how to conduct the program.
"I am hearing a lot of issues regarding the program. If you live in a gated area that has 30 children and there is one teacher there, why are you saying you need PPEs? If you don’t want to teach the children then don’t. The children belong to you," Magoha ranted.
He added that the concept behind the program is to engage students stuck at home during the Coronavirus (Covid-19 pandemic).
The new program will see classes undertaken in social halls, under trees and other community spaces with teachers on the government payroll leading lessons.
The CS argued that it was better to have teachers interact with students rather than stay idle as they were receiving monthly salaries from the government.
Magoha further addressed the reopening of schools in January 2021, arguing that he would only reopen upon being advised by Health CS Mutahi Kagwe.
"We said schools are closed until January, but since we did not know the behaviour of the virus, we’re ready to sit down and change our minds. Is that what people call confusion? Can you read the dictionary and find out what confusion is?" Magoha ranted.
He further clarified the issues around payment of Board of Management teachers. The government reversed money slated for BOM teachers a day after releasing the funds.
The CS argued that his job was to ensure the money was not stolen, citing procedures had to be followed before releasing the funds.
Watch CS Magoha speak on communal learning program
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