MPs to discuss ranking Bill, says Matiang'i

The ranking of schools and candidates in national examinations might be re-introduced, but with a difference.

Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i yesterday said ranking “is a matter of national interest and I have decided to re-open the issue and consult”.

FINAL SCORES

He told a press conference in his Jogoo House office in Nairobi that a new system of evaluation or mentorship would be developed in the ranking and not just the use of scores in final examinations.

Dr Matiang’i added that the ongoing curriculum review would help determine how to handle the matter. The CS said a Bill on ranking was in the National Assembly.

“We want to relook at the issue and reach a consensus on how to possibly introduce a holistic method of ranking that takes into account a number of critical factors, including schools’ performance in national examinations, co-curricular activities, physical facilities, leadership and governance among others,” he said.

Former Education CS Jacob Kaimenyi banned the ranking of schools and candidates following recommendations of two committees chaired by Ms Naomi Wangai and Mr David Koech.

He said ranking was done away with because in the race for top positions, teachers and candidates were being unethical.

Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa has tabled a Bill in Parliament to  compel the government to reintroduce ranking of schools, students and counties.

The Bill seeks to make it mandatory for schools and students to be graded, based on performance. 

PUBLIC SCHOOLS ONLY

Meanwhile, the government has said it will not pay examination fees for the candidates in private institutions.

Dr Matiang’i said only children in public schools would receive the Sh3.4 billion set aside for Standard Eight and Form Four examinations registration.

“For now, the government will only pay for candidates in public schools,” he said.

“We are not saying that we will never pay for children in private schools in future.”