Over 14,000 classrooms constructed in last 3 months to accommodate JSS students: CS Ogamba

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba says the government has constructed over 14,000 classrooms countrywide in the past three months to accommodate students transitioning from primary to junior secondary schools (JSSs).

Speaking on Tuesday at Uthiru Primary School in Nairobi County, the CS said 14,500 out of the 16,000 classrooms Grade 9 students require are ready.

Ogamba said his Ministry plans to put up 1,600 science laboratories in junior secondary schools.

According to the minister, over 9.9 million textbooks have been printed to address the shortage recorded since JSSs were introduced with the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in January 2023.

“Each student will have their own textbook across all the subjects. Parents should never have to buy books; that is the government’s work,” Ogamba said.

At the same time, the CS urged parents to register their children with the Social Health Authority (SHA) despite the challenges recorded with the new public healthcare system.

“Every new thing has its challenges but we are working to make sure SHA is fully working. Do not let these challenges make you not register your children because this cover will help them in the future,” he said.