President William Ruto. Photo/PCS
By Newsflash Writer
President William Ruto has ordered all secondary school principals across the country to admit every Grade 10 learner unconditionally, following widespread concern over delays and uncertainty in the transition to senior secondary school under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
In a press release issued on Thursday, January 22, by Cabinet Secretary for Education Julius Ogamba, the President directed that no learner should be denied admission on the basis of school fees, uniforms, accommodation, or any other administrative or financial requirement. The directive comes amid reports that thousands of learners were yet to report to school due to varying admission demands imposed by individual institutions.
No conditions for admission
President Ruto said the government is fully committed to safeguarding every child’s right to education, noting that the transition from junior to senior secondary school is a critical pillar in the full rollout of the CBC system. He warned that placing conditions on admission risks locking out vulnerable learners and undermining the constitutional guarantee of access to basic education.
The Head of State instructed principals to immediately allow all learners placed in their schools to report and commence learning, regardless of their ability to meet upfront requirements. He stressed that any outstanding issues, including fees and supplies, should be addressed progressively and in consultation with parents and education authorities.
Read more: Government blamed for Grade 10 registration crisis
According to the press release, the Ministry of Education has been tasked with ensuring strict compliance with the directive. Education officials at both national and regional levels have been directed to monitor schools closely and intervene where learners are turned away or subjected to unofficial conditions.
President Ruto further cautioned that disciplinary action would be taken against school administrators who defy the directive, saying the government would not tolerate practices that disadvantage children during such a crucial transition period.
Pledges support to schools
Acknowledging concerns raised by school heads over capacity, funding, and infrastructure, the President assured principals that the government is working to ease the pressure on institutions receiving the new Grade 10 cohort. He said capitation funds and other support mechanisms are being streamlined to ensure schools are adequately resourced.
The President also appealed to parents and guardians to cooperate with school administrations, noting that while admission must be unconditional, sustained engagement will be necessary to stabilise learning and address operational challenges. He urged parents to honour their responsibilities once learners are settled, including supporting schools through agreed payment plans.
Read more: Parents left stranded by Grade 10 new placement rules
Education stakeholders have welcomed the directive, describing it as timely and necessary to restore confidence in the CBC transition process.
However, some school administrators have warned that overcrowding and strained facilities could affect learning if government support is delayed.
The directive takes immediate effect and applies to all public secondary schools nationwide.
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