Primary school head-teachers across Kenya have been encouraged to adopt digital technologies to provide high-quality education that is accessible to all students, regardless of their socioeconomic backgrounds. Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, emphasized the need for collaboration among educators and stakeholders to equip students with essential skills, attitudes, and values to succeed in the 21st-century workforce.
“Education is a foundation for innovation, equity, and sustainability as we stand on the brink of a digital revolution,” Koskei stated at the Kenya Primary Schools Head-teachers Association (KEPSHA) conference in Mombasa, attended by over 15,000 head-teachers. This year’s conference theme, Transformative Leadership in the Digital Transition for Inclusive and Sustainable Quality Basic Education in Kenya, underscores the role of leadership in advancing digital inclusion.
Koskei outlined a vision of a fully digital education system aimed at expanding access to quality education across Kenya, including remote and underserved areas. By using digital platforms, students in rural areas can access the same resources as those in urban schools, helping to bridge educational inequities.
“Digital technology breaks down barriers, giving every child the opportunity for a brighter future, regardless of background,” Koskei added.
Praising the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), Koskei noted it aligns with the digital transformation envisioned in education, preparing students with critical skills necessary for today’s workforce. The CBC framework integrates digital literacy to foster creativity, adaptability, and critical thinking, all essential in a rapidly changing world.
Koskei emphasized that the government remains committed to Free Compulsory Basic Education, as guaranteed by Kenya’s Constitution. This commitment is reflected in the education sector’s 2024/2025 budget allocation of Sh627.7 billion, which includes Sh24.217 billion for primary schools and Sh30.7 billion for junior schools. Head-teachers were urged to ensure these funds are managed prudently, promoting accountability and transparency within their schools.
Koskei encouraged head-teachers to adhere strictly to the Public Finance Management Act and the Public Procurement and Assets Disposal Act, highlighting that compliance with these laws is essential for transparent and responsible resource management. “This is not merely procedural but foundational to fostering transparency and accountability in public resource stewardship,” he said.
Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Dr. Belio Kipsang, updated head-teachers on progress in preparing for a seamless transition to Grade 9, with 16,000 classrooms on track to open in January. He encouraged schools to allocate funds for maintenance and to equip classrooms with desks to ensure they are ready for learners.
Dr. Kipsang further assured head-teachers that capitation funds would be disbursed before schools open for the new term in January, despite the fiscal challenges facing the government. He affirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing capitation to support children’s education.
KEPSHA Chairman, Johnson Nzioka, pledged to ensure a smooth transition to Grade 9, with the ongoing construction of new classrooms expected to provide adequate space for all students. He also called on the government to consider raising the classroom construction budget from the current Sh1 million and to increase primary school capitation funds as recommended by the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms.
This conference highlighted the critical role of head-teachers in shaping Kenya’s future through digital education and efficient resource use, setting a course toward a more inclusive, sustainable education system.
