The National Assembly of Kenya has kicked off debate on a proposed law targeting what MPs describe as widespread discriminatory practices in schools that are locking vulnerable children out of classrooms.
The motion, tabled by Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge, seeks to align school operations with constitutional provisions guaranteeing every child the right to free and compulsory basic education.
Anchored on Articles 53 and 43 of the Constitution, as well as the Basic Education Act and the Children Act, the proposal aims to remove financial and administrative barriers that lawmakers say have quietly crept into the system.
Uniform rules and levies under scrutiny
At the heart of the motion is a push to dismantle practices that force parents to buy school uniforms from specific suppliers, often at inflated prices.
If passed, schools will be required to allow parents to purchase uniforms from the open market, as long as they meet institutional standards—effectively ending monopoly supply arrangements.
The proposal also seeks to ban schools from sending learners home over unpaid non-statutory charges such as feeding programmes, remedial classes, or other informal levies.
“Some schools are imposing economic and administrative barriers, and in some instances creating avenues for abuse of office and improper financial benefit,” Mathenge told the House.
MPs warn of growing exclusion in schools
Several lawmakers used the debate to paint a grim picture of the current state of education, linking exclusionary practices to rising economic pressure on households.
Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara warned that many families are struggling to keep children in school due to the high cost of living.
“The education sector is collapsing. Parents are suffering economically, and the Ministry of Education is not doing enough,” she said.
Funyula MP Gideon Ochanda echoed the concerns, blaming inconsistent school policies for worsening the situation.
“Each school is doing its own thing, and those who are suffering are the children,” he said, citing cases where students are sent home shortly after reporting back over minor issues.
Proposed reforms and what happens next
The motion directs the Ministry of Education, working with the Teachers Service Commission, to develop a clear regulatory and enforcement framework within 90 days.
This would include monitoring systems, complaint channels for parents and students, and nationwide awareness campaigns to ensure schools comply with the new rules.
If adopted, the changes could significantly reshape how schools operate across Kenya, particularly in protecting learners from exclusion tied to financial hardship.
Debate on the motion is expected to continue next week as lawmakers push for reforms they say are long overdue.
