MPs accuse Knec of defying government's exam fees directive
From right, nominated MP Johnson Sakaja, Ugenya MP David Ochieng, and Navakholo MP Emmanuel Wangwe at a press conference Parliament on July 29, 2015. PHOTO | JEREMIAH KIPLANGAT | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- Kenya Private Schools Association chief executive officer Peter Ndoro criticised the decision by the government.
- He said that the measure amounted to unnecessary discrimination.
Three MPs have accused the Kenya National Examinations Council (Knec) of defying a government directive that scrapped fees charged for registering candidates.
The MPs claim on July 10, Knec released a circular directing headteachers to charge fees for any amendments on the the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) and Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) registration forms.
The lawmakers — nominated MP Johnson Sakaja, David Ochieng (Ugenya) and Emmanuel Wangwe (Navakholo) — were addressing a press conference at Parliament on Wednesday.
They claim the circular directs headteachers to charge Sh500 on name changes and Sh 3,000 for subject reviews.
"The fee is illegal and in bad faith and meant to bring back registration fees through the back door," Mr Wangwe said.
The government had earlier this year stated that it would pay examination fees only for candidates in schools that are receiving free primary and subsidised secondary education funds.
However, Kenya Private Schools Association chief executive officer Peter Ndoro criticised the decision by the government not to pay examination fees for candidates in private schools.
He said the measure amounts to unnecessary discrimination.
