Junior Secondary is finally here, with Grade Seven students reporting to school today, ushering in the second part of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
However, the implementation is hampered by a lack of infrastructure and financing shortfalls, with the government yet to provide the promised capitation of Sh15,000 per learner.
Concerns remain about whether there is enough land, classrooms, and laboratories, as well as a sufficient supply of water and power, to accommodate junior secondary schools (JSS).
For example, in disadvantaged areas, schools will share resources with their neighbors. The Ministry of Education stated in its recommendations that the collaboration will significantly benefit the teaching of practical subjects such as integrated science, agriculture, computer science, home science, and the visual and performing arts.
Other facilities to be shared include playing fields, open spaces, athletics, games, physical fitness equipment, and health services.
Psycho-social support
Further, schools are required to collaborate on matters of counselling, psycho-social support and transport.
A shortage of teachers is another challenge facing many schools. However, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is in the process of recruiting an additional 35,000 teachers.
While grappling with the teacher shortage, TSC will also deploy primary teachers with diploma and degree certificates to teach in junior secondary.
JSS ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
1. Documents Required
You are required to obtain the following documents for presentation during registration
- KPSEA assessment report (original and photocopy)
- Copy of Birth certificate
- Copy of parent/ guardian identification document ( ID/Passport)
- 2 passport photographs
2. Personal Items Required
- Writing pens
- padlock
- Bible/ Koran (as may apply)
3. School Uniform
Parents are expected to cover the expense of the uniform. Uniforms can be purchased from any uniform shop as long as they match the school’s colors. Furthermore, the schools have effectively prequalified three uniform retailers. The parent is free to shop at any time and from any vendor.
4: Meals
The school will provide a meal program for day scholars at a cost of KSH… per term. This program is entirely optional. Students who opt out of the program, on the other hand, will be expected to bring a packed lunch because the class duration is spread from morning to afternoon.
5. Boarding Facilities
The school has a boarding section, and enrolled students will be provided with the necessary services for a fee. In addition, parents will contribute personal goods needed by their children while boarding. NB: Boarding is optional.
Fees Structure for Grade 7 Boarders 2023
The Government will pay ksh 15,000 per learner for junior secondary learners who are day scholars. However parents admitting learners in a boarding school will meet the boarding facility cost.
