Alliance girls National School
NAIROBI —CG
A storm is brewing at one of Kenya’s top national schools Alliance girls National School after the government cracked down on what it termed an illegal and excessive fee increase, sending shockwaves among parents and education stakeholders.
Education Cabinet Secretary Dr. Julius Ogamba has ordered disciplinary action against Principal Margaret Njeru and dissolved the school’s board of management, accusing them of sidestepping the law in approving a steep fee hike.
At the center of the dispute is a dramatic jump in fees — more than double the government-approved cap — implemented without clearance from the Ministry of Education, in violation of the Basic Education Act 2013.
A government audit paints a picture of questionable priorities: millions allocated to non-essential expenditures, including trips, ceremonies and administrative perks, all contributing to the ballooning cost passed on to parents.
Particularly controversial is a proposed multi-million shilling overseas trip for staff, flagged by investigators as excessive at a time when families are already grappling with rising living costs.
In dissolving the board, CS for Education Dr. Ogamba signaled a tougher stance on school governance, warning that institutions flouting fee regulations will face swift consequences.
The unfolding saga has reignited debate over accountability in public schools, with parents and policymakers increasingly demanding transparency in how institutions manage funds — and how far they can go before crossing the line.
