Private Schools React to Gov't Order to Close All Schools

Kenya Private Schools Association (KPSA) has dismissed the Government's order to close all schools in the country following the ongoing teachers' strike in public schools.

The association indicated that the directive issued by Education Cabinet Secretary Jacob Kaimenyi was unfair and that it would be unfortunate if the private schools were affected as their teachers were not involved in the industrial action.

“It would be very unfortunate as far as private schools are concerned because our teachers were not involved in the strike and our schools have been going on normally. Therefore there is no reason they should be closed,” said KPSA Chairman, Ernest Wangai.

Wangai added that private schools were in a contract with both parents and teachers and that the abrupt closure of schools would leave them in a dilema. 

KPSA called on their teachers and leaners to stay put even as the association threatened to move to court if leaning would be disrupted in their institutions.

Parents and guardians also raised concerns on the school fees already paid for third term. However, in a statement issued by the Ministry of Education, schools' boards were advised to carry forward school fees paid by parents to the new term dates yet to be announced.

CS Kaimenyi on Friday directed the closure of all schools as from Monday, September 21.

The directive, however, affects learners in class one to seven and those in form one to form three, with the candidates expected to remain in school.

The government attributed the move to the growing tension in schools, saying the decision is aimed at safeguarding students' welfare.

According to the Kaimenyi the closure of schools was also occasioned by very little or no learning in schools following the tutors industrial action.

Government Closes All Schools