The Ministry of Education has announced new guidelines for joining boarding secondary schools starting January 2026, under the competency-based curriculum (CBC). The guidelines require uniform school fees for all boarding schools regardless of type. This aims to reduce financial burdens on parents while the government provides additional support.
Parents of students set to join boarding secondary schools from January 2026 have been shocked by new guidelines announced by the Ministry of Education. Under the competency-based curriculum (CBC), the guidelines mandate uniform fees of Sh53,554 per year for all boarding schools, regardless of whether they are national, county, or extra-county.
Previously, fees varied by school type to ease financial burdens. Now, the free day secondary education (FDSE) funding has been reduced, with day school parents paying Sh9,374 and those with special needs paying Sh37,210. The government will provide capitation of Sh12,870 per day school student and Sh32,600 for those with special needs.
The guidelines aim to equalize access to education and ensure no student is left behind due to financial constraints. Secondary schools will serve students aged 15–17, corresponding to grades 10–12, bridging primary and higher education.
All schools must have modern infrastructure, including laboratories, art studios, sports fields, workshops, and digital rooms. No classroom should exceed 45 students. Teachers will teach at least 27 lessons per week, with principals relieved of teaching duties to focus on administration.
The timetable will include 40 lessons per week, with 3 periods for sports, 2 for ICT, and 1 for self-study. Day schools will not require students to arrive before 7:15 a.m., and classes will end at 4:30 p.m. Schools must also form finance audit committees, involving parents and student guardians in management.