MKU Pro-Chancellor urges politicians to keep education free from politics

Dr. Gaitho said the education sector has clear stakeholders who should be allowed to operate without political pressure. “Education has no vacuum. It has its owners — teachers, education officials, pupils, students, parents, private sector investors and government officials. Politicians should speak less,” he said.

He noted that in previous generations, students freely attended schools across different regions, particularly during the former A-Level system. “People from the Mt Kenya region studied at the Coast, Rift Valley and Western Kenya. Education thrives best in a calm environment,” he said, adding that political interference undermines learning.

His remarks come amid growing controversy over the placement of Grade 10 learners in senior schools. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticised the placement process, describing it as discriminatory and unfair.

“The placement of our children has been centralised at Jogoo House. This is rooted in corruption because the bureaucrats sitting there lack the capacity to place learners fairly,” Gachagua said.

Gachagua argued that the exercise has exposed deep inequalities in the education sector despite heavy public investment through devolution and the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF).

Dr. Gaitho echoed concerns about disparities in school infrastructure, calling on county governments to invest more in local schools. He said every part of the country should be developed into an education hub. “Education is an equaliser and a unifier. Children should be allowed to learn anywhere in Kenya,” he said.

He also highlighted challenges faced by learners and parents, including the high cost of uniforms and school fees. Dr. Gaitho criticised delays in the release of capitation funds, saying they continue to strain schools. “The government has been too slow in releasing capitation,” he said.

However, he praised Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro for effectively investing NG-CDF funds in education infrastructure within his constituency.

On curriculum reforms, Dr. Gaitho defended the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, saying it promotes practical skills and real-world application. He noted that CBE is opening pathways in science and technology, arts and sports, and should be aligned to prepare learners for global competitiveness. “We should be training global civil servants,” he said.

Dr. Gaitho also called for constructive dialogue between the government and publishers over pending bills and stressed the need to decisively address corruption in the education sector. “Funding is key, and corruption must be dealt with ruthlessly,” he said.