Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba reported that the government has so far completed the construction of 14,500 classrooms for the first cohort of Grade 9 learners.
Speaking at Mitihani House in South C on Thursday, he said they are on track to achieve 16,000 classrooms by January. He attributed the success to the government’s allocation of Sh11 billion to schools nationwide for the construction of 11,000 Grade 9 classrooms.
He highlighted additional funding of Sh6.8 billion channeled through the NG-CDF, comprising Sh3.4 billion from the Ministry of Education and an equal amount in matching funds from NG-CDF, to build 6,800 classrooms.
Ogamba disclosed that the 18 constituencies in Nairobi County have been allocated a total of Sh1 billion for infrastructure development via NG-CDF. He praised MPs for their collaboration and dedication to building classrooms for Junior Schools.
He emphasized the ministry’s plans to construct an additional 7,290 classrooms to accommodate the growing enrollment of learners and to facilitate a smooth transition for the incoming cohort.
Addressing Transition Challenges
Ogamba assured that the government has overcome anticipated hurdles in placing all Grade 8 learners in Grade 9 classrooms, which represents the highest level of Junior School. On Tuesday, he explained that a multi-agency approach is being implemented to ensure a seamless transition to Grade 9.
He stressed that any challenges encountered should be escalated promptly to find solutions, including merging lower-grade classes to avoid disruptions for Grade 9 learners.
Read Also: KNEC to Introduce Mid-Year Series of KCSE Exam
The CS also announced that the ministry has procured and distributed 9,926,618 textbooks for Grade 9, with the process expected to be finalized by January. He said he has directed the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development to work diligently to ensure that all necessary textbooks and instructional materials are readily available for learners.
Ogamba commended the efforts made to ensure that learners’ educational needs are met and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the transition and infrastructure development for Junior Schools.
14,500 Classrooms for Grade 9 Complete, Says CS Ogamba
