Kenya to End Free National Exam Fees: Targeted Subsidies Planned

Kenya Ends Free National Exam Fees: A New Era for Education? Starting next year, Kenyan parents will face a significant change as the government ends its decade-long waiver of national examination fees. This decision, announced by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, has sparked both concern and debate across the country. The shift to a "targeted subsidy approach" aims to ensure that needy learners are not left behind. However, questions remain about how this will be implemented and whether it will effectively address the financial burden on many families. "Concerns had emerged this year that the government had not set aside money for exams," explains one news report. CS Mbadi assures the public that a budget is in place, but the details of the new system remain unclear. The video includes interviews with several people, expressing anxieties about the change and the uncertainty it creates for families. One parent voices their concern: "A lot of parents at the moment are anxious and uncertain." The government's commitment to ensuring all children have access to education is emphasized, but the practicalities of the new fee structure and the criteria for identifying needy learners are yet to be fully clarified. The government’s plans for cost-cutting measures, such as local printing of exam materials, are also discussed, highlighting efforts to make the system more efficient and affordable. This change marks a significant shift in Kenya's education landscape, prompting questions about equity, accessibility, and the government's ability to provide adequate support for all learners.