The Senate Education Committee, Chaired by Senator Betty Montet, is currently undertaking a report writing retreat to deliberate on stakeholders’ memoranda regarding the Basic Education Amendment Bill, 2023.

The retreat has brought together key Members of the Committee, including Vice Chair Senator Prof. Margaret Kamar, Senator Catherine Mumma, Senator Nderitu Kinyua, Senator Agnes Kavindu Muthama and Senator Seki Lenku who are collectively reviewing submissions aimed at strengthening the education sector.

In the ongoing deliberations, the Committee is considering input from key stakeholders, including Usawa Agenda, the Council of Governors, Elimu Yetu Coalition, the Kenya Institute for Special Education, the Teachers Service Commission, and the National Parents Association, among others.

The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Basic Education Act by establishing Sub-County Education Boards to decentralize oversight. The boards, comprising a chairperson and six members appointed by the Cabinet Secretary, will play a critical role in managing education data, assessing school budgetary needs, and overseeing infrastructure funding.

In addition, the Committee is considering its report on the inquiry into the implementation status of Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) and Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) across Machakos County, Kitui County, and Makueni County.

The Committee is expected to adopt the report at the retreat and table it in the Senate, marking a significant step towards enhancing education standards and service delivery across the counties.