Governors Deny Reports of Pre-primary Schools Transfer to National Govt
The Council of Governors led by its Chair Anne Wiguru has addressed reports stating that the management of Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) will be transferred to the national government.
In a letter dated Dember 28, addressed to the Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, governors refuted reports that had been widely circulated by local dailies.
”The Council’s attention has been drawn to various reports in the local dailies alluding to the transfer of the management of pre-primary schools from the County Governments to the National Government,” the letter noted.
The governors reiterated that the function of management of pre-primary schools is solely under the county governments and no such agreement had been made.
”Whereas the Council, supports reforms in the education sector, it is critical to note that the management of pre-primary schools remains an exclusive function of the County Governments,” the letter further clarified.
Governors stated that despite recommendations of the Presidential Working Party and a move by Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu to have Early Child Development Education (ECDE) under Primary Heads by January 2024 was not in line with provisions of Article 187 of the Constitution.
”We are cognizant of the recommendations of the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms however the implementation of the same should be strictly undertaken by the provisions of Article 187 of the Constitution that sets the parameters for the transfer of functions and powers between the two levels of government,” the governor argued.
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Whilst not alleviating the possibility of the transfer in the future, the governors noted that until the proper procedure of transfer is followed, the function will remain under cunty governments.
”We hold the position that until such an agreement is entered into with mutual agreement of the parties, the County Governments will continue to fully manage pre-primary schools as provided for under the Fourth Schedule of the constitution,” the governors reiterated.
If the plan by the National Government to take over the ECDE function stays intact, it will be the first time the ECDEs will be under primary heads since the inception of devolution.
This comes even as the ECDE pupils are expected back in school by January 8 alongside Primary and secondary schools as announced by CS Machogu
However, their form one counterparts will not report on the same day as they will have to wait until January 15, to report to their respective secondary schools.
Governors Deny Reports of Pre-primary Schools Transfer to National Govt
