PS Bitok warns headteachers against sending learners home over fees

Nancy Chepkoech
By Nancy Chepkoech January 24, 2026 03:05 (EAT)
PS Bitok warns headteachers against sending learners home over fees

Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok.

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Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok has issued a stern warning to headteachers who continue to send learners home over unpaid school fees, despite a presidential directive prohibiting the exclusion of any child from school due to lack of fees or school uniform.

Speaking at Isinya Moi Girls Secondary School in Kajiado County during the launch of the Elimu Scholarship Programme, PS Bitok reiterated that the government had already disbursed capitation funds to schools ahead of reopening. He stressed that school heads, therefore, have no justification for turning learners away.

He underscored that education remains a top priority for the government and cautioned principals against actions that undermine access, equity, and learner retention in schools.

The PS further called on education stakeholders, working closely with National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), to intensify mop-up exercises nationwide to ensure a 100 per cent transition of learners—especially those moving from primary to secondary school.

Ambassador Bitok noted that the Elimu Scholarship Programme forms part of wider government interventions aimed at supporting vulnerable learners and easing the financial burden of education on families.

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