The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Mr. Ezekiel Machogu, has urged headteachers of primary and secondary schools to adhere to regulated school hours. In a recent meeting with officials from the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (KESSHA), Mr. Machogu emphasized the importance of starting teaching promptly at 8:00 am and concluding at 3:45 pm on weekdays. The Ministry of Education allows for a maximum of 6 teaching hours, with the intention of providing a natural and unforced learning experience for students.
Mr. Machogu highlighted Finland as an example of a country with a world-class education system that operates on a three-hour teaching regime. He emphasized that schools should follow regulated school hours to enable students to manage their own learning and engage in physical education activities. The goal is to create a conducive learning environment that prioritizes the well-being of learners and promotes their active participation in both academic and physical activities.
During the meeting with KESSHA officials, Mr. Machogu expressed his gratitude for the support the association has provided to the government in managing education and implementing ongoing education reforms. He also acknowledged the challenges faced by schools and called for proposals from KESSHA on addressing various issues such as the costing of school uniforms, capitation funds for free day secondary education, curriculum material disbursement, management of co-curricular activities, and auditing of school finances.
Dr. Belio Kipsang, the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Basic Education, was present during the meeting and encouraged KESSHA’s leadership to regulate the cost of school uniforms among its members. These discussions reflect the government’s commitment to improving the education system and addressing concerns raised by various stakeholders.
In summary, Education CS Machogu has called for regulated school hours, with teaching starting at 8:00 am and ending at 3:45 pm on weekdays. The Ministry of Education recognizes a maximum of 6 teaching hours and emphasizes the importance of providing a natural and unforced learning experience for students. The discussions with KESSHA officials also touched on various issues related to school management, and the Ministry will study these issues and seek possible solutions.
