CS Ogamba orders release of withheld certificates
Thousands of students who have been unable to access their academic certificates due to unpaid school fees can now breathe a sigh of relief.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has now issued a directive instructing all schools to immediately release withheld certificates, emphasizing that no student should be denied their documents because of financial struggles.
Speaking on Monday, Ogamba condemned the practice of withholding certificates, calling it illegal.
He noted that many students have been unable to further their education or secure employment due to the lack of their documents.
To ensure compliance, he directed county directors of education to gather data on all withheld Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) and Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) certificates and submit a report within 14 days.
He warned school administrators that failure to follow the directive would lead to serious consequences.
The CS urged students and parents to report any school that refuses to release the certificates so that necessary action can be taken.
“For years, students and parents have suffered due to withheld certificates. This has forced many young people to abandon their dreams, resort to casual jobs, or sink into frustration. We cannot allow this to continue,” Ogamba said.
The announcement has been met with relief from students and parents who have struggled to move forward without their academic documents. Many have missed out on job opportunities and further studies due to the restrictions.
While some school administrators argue that withholding certificates ensures fee balances are cleared, the government maintains that students should not be punished for financial hardships beyond their control.
Ogamba reassured the public that the ministry is dedicated to ensuring that all students have equal opportunities regardless of their financial background.
“The government is fully committed to ensuring that all students receive fair treatment and that financial constraints do not stand in the way of their future,” he stated.
On the same day, Ogamba held talks with the Executive President of the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), He Junke, to discuss potential collaborations aimed at promoting science and technology in Kenya. The meeting explored ways to enhance the country’s technological advancement through Kenya’s partnership with China.
“The government will continue to leverage its partnership with China to advance science and technology, which are key drivers of economic development,” Ogamba noted.