Parents and education stakeholders in Murang'a have expressed outrage over what they say is an acute shortage of Junior Secondary Schools (JSS). The cries, according to them, manifest glaringly as the gap in learning continues to widen with pupils transitioning from primary to JSS exposed to serious safety risks.
The outcry comes at a time when more learners are shifting to Junior Secondary Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) through JSS. It is unfortunate, however, that a large number of public primary schools across the county have not been promoted to accommodate JSS classes; as a result, most pupils have to travel very far to access those nearest institutions offering Junior Secondary. This exerts extra pressure on both family and learner alike.
Speaking during the launch of education infrastructure projects at Gachogi Primary and Junior School in Kangema Constituency, parents have underscored that the lack of JSS classes in nearby schools is a challenge for them. These projects are funded through the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF).
Ngooro Primary School. Photo/Courtesy.
Parents have indicated that learners are now forced to walk long distances every day in the absence of security conditions, clearly raising questions regarding safety and welfare. According to Simon Mbatia, a parent, it is increasingly becoming a worrisome situation for families.
"Our children are forced to walk very long distances to school every day. It is really dangerous and exhausting for them, and it is bound to affect their performance," Mbatia said, adding that the anxiety created among parents and learners due to lack of JSS institutions nearby should be addressed by the Ministry of Education ensuring JSS facilities are set in every public primary school.
Another parent, Mary Maina, echoed the sentiments of other parents, stating, however, that having JSS classes in all the primary schools would go a long way in mitigating the pressure families hold, especially in the face of tight economic conditions. She urged the Ministry of Education to hurry in certifying schools that have been cleared in line with the requirements.
"Education should not endanger our children. It should be open for everyone," Maina said.
The school principals have also lamented the issue. According to Gachogi Primary and Junior School head teacher Elizabeth Waithera Wanyoike, placement of students in Junior Secondary Schools has been a headache for both parents and administrators.
She observed that some learners have been placed in day schools terribly distant from their homes, even counties like Kisii and Kericho, making it a difficult challenge for parents already overburdened with financial strain. Wanyoike suggested letting learners determine schools closer and more suitable to their conditions.
Peter Kihungi, the MP representing Kangema constituency, asserted that several schools in the constituency meet a threshold to host Junior Secondary classes and should not be delayed from being gazetted. He said that at least three schools are ready and urged the Ministry of Education to accelerate the process.
Besides, he wants the process of placing Grade 10 learners reviewed, saying the current rigid placement system has disadvantaged many students. He proposes that the window for placement should be drawn longer for learners to make informed decisions and effect changes where necessary.
"Much as many families cannot afford boarding schools in these tough economic times, day schools near the homes are affordable," said Kihungi.
He assured residents that NG-CDF would continue to support school infrastructure development so that learners continue studying in safe and conducive environments. As part of the initiative, the MP commissioned new and renovated classrooms in eight primary schools across the constituency. At Gachogi Primary School, eight classrooms were renovated and cabro paving installed, fully financed by the NG-CDF.
