Ololtuaa puts school safety at centre of his agenda

By Wanderi Kamau

Newly appointed Principal Secretary for Basic Education John Ololtuaa has made school safety, quality assurance and public trust the key pillars of his leadership as he officially launched the orientation programme for newly recruited Quality Assurance and Standards Officers (QASOs).

The event marked Ololtuaa’s first public engagement since his appointment to the State Department for Basic Education, where he recently transitioned from the State Department for Tourism.

Addressing the officers during the orientation session, Ololtuaa underscored the critical role they will play in strengthening Kenya’s education system at a time when the sector is undergoing significant reforms and facing growing public scrutiny.

“As officers of the Ministry, you are custodians of public trust,” he told the recruits. “Your work will directly influence the quality of education and the safety of learners across the country.”

A seasoned educationist, Ololtuaa returns to the education sector after years of service in various leadership positions. His career journey spans from classroom teacher to school principal, District Education Officer, County Director of Education and Regional Director of Education before his deployment to the tourism docket.

He described education as the foundation upon which nations are built and urged the officers to embrace their responsibilities with commitment and professionalism.

School safety takes priority

In his address, the PS devoted considerable attention to learner safety, particularly in the wake of recent school fire incidents that have disrupted learning in several institutions across the country.

He reminded the officers that ensuring compliance with safety regulations and government guidelines must remain a top priority.

“The recent tragic fires in our schools are a painful reminder that a safe and secure learning environment is not negotiable; it is the foundation on which all learning depends,” he said.

A section of the newly appointed newly recruited Quality Assurance and Standards Officers (QASOs) in Nairobi on 16/06/2026. Photo/MoE

The remarks come amid growing concern over student unrest and a series of school fires that have raised questions about safety standards in learning institutions.

Ololtuaa challenged the newly recruited officers to remain vigilant in monitoring schools and ensuring that health and safety regulations are fully implemented.

He noted that parents entrust schools with the wellbeing of their children and expect learning institutions to provide safe environments that support academic growth and character development.

Upholding integrity and accountability

Beyond safety, the PS emphasized the importance of integrity, transparency and accountability in public service.

He reminded the officers that their conduct would determine public confidence in government institutions and urged them to uphold the values enshrined in the Constitution.

“The credibility of government institutions depends largely on the conduct of those who serve within them,” he said.

Ololtuaa also linked the officers’ responsibilities to the successful implementation of Competency-Based Education, noting that continuous monitoring and quality assurance will be vital as reforms continue to take shape.

He encouraged the officers to embrace teamwork and work closely with teachers, learners, parents, school managers and other stakeholders in the education sector.

Closing his remarks with a quote from the late South African leader Nelson Mandela, Ololtuaa urged the officers to lead by example and make decisions guided by hope and responsibility.

The orientation session offered an early indication of the new PS’s priorities, signalling a leadership approach focused on learner safety, quality education and ethical public service as he begins his tenure at the helm of Kenya’s Basic Education sector.