3 important reasons that made Education CS George Magoha give learners an early Mid-term break

Education CS George Magoha has elicited mixed reactions among Kenyans after ordering an immediate release of students from schools.

The no nonsense cabinet secretary made the move on Monday, 1^st of July. In his official circular served to all schools, Magoha ordered all school heads to release learners on Tuesday 2^nd of August.

“As you are all aware, Kenya is scheduled to conduct its national elections on Tuesday 9^th August. Therefore, following further consultations, I hereby convey the government’s decision on closure of all basic education institutions with effect from Tuesday, 2^nd August 2022 until Wednesday, 10^th August 2022 to ensure that the preparation and the conduct of the upcoming elections is carried out seamlessly,” read the letter.

Following the short notice to arrange for the movement of children, a section of Parents have unleashed wrath on Education CS George Magoha. They have described him as heartless and a person who runs the ministry like a personal property.

“It is so funny how Magoha thinks parents pluck money on trees. He just wakes up and sends our children home. Where do we get fare on such a short notice,” said one.

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Some parents have however lauded Education CS George Magoha for being sensitive about the security of learners.

“I think some parents are being angry for nothing. CS Magoha  wants children home early enough because he cares about their safety. I’m very happy for the CS,”

While the decision to send learners home early may not have pleased everyone, here are some of the reasons that may have driven Education CS George Magoha to make the decision;

1.Security of the learners

Kenya is drawing close to the end of campaign period.  Politicians are in the last hour  rush to win the hearts the many undecided Kenyans. Normally, such moments are characterized by intense political heat. In some instances the political temperatures escalates to violence.

Professor George Magoha may have, in his wisdom, sent learners home to caution them from any danger.

2.Preparation of polling stations.

Learning institutions have for years been used as polling stations. This election is not an exception.

Fair and credible election requires proper preparation. Education CS George Magoha decision to send learners home early may have been necessitated by need of early preparations of the polling stations.

3. Involvement of Teachers in the election Process

A number of teachers Country wide have been recruited by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to facilitate the election process.  

Some tutors have however been unable to attend the ongoing trainings, as they rush to cover the syllabus ahead of national Examination.

Decision to send learners home has relieved teachers off their duties.