Education CS Julius Ogamba in his office on March 17, 2025. /EDUMINIt is illegal for schools to withhold certificates for students who have completed their exams, Education CS Julius Ogamba has told headteachers and directed them to release the documents.
Many schools withhold certificates until students clear fees arrears, but Ogamba said the practice is against the law.
No student should be denied access to their certificates because of financial contraints, the CS said.
Speaking on Monday, Ogamba directed county directors of education to compile a report on the status of withheld KCPE and KCSE certificates and submit a report to his office within 14 days.
He directed the county education officials to ensure his directive is complied with, warning of serious action against those who fail to release the documents.
Students and parents are expected to report schools that refuse to release the certificates for action to be taken.
Whereas school heads argue that fee arrears help them run institutions more efficiently once they are cleared, the practice is detrimental to the affected students.
Witheld certificates often deny students an opportunity to advance their education or apply for jobs, leaving their careers stagnant sometimes for years.
Unable to raise the requisite fee balance, some learners from vulnerable households forego their dreams altogether and turn to menial jobs.
Hit by the reality of the possibility of never realising their dreams, others fall into depression or drug abuse.
Ogamba's directive hence comes as a reprieve to students and parents who may have been waiting for years for their certificates to either advance their studies or apply for jobs.
The CS said his ministry will continue to monitor schools closely to ensure students access their certificates without any pre-condition.
Meanwhile, Ogamba on Monday led other ministry officials in a meeting with the Executive President of the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), His Excellency HE Junke.
The introductory meeting presented the ministry and CAST the chance to explore opportunities for collaboration to promote science and technology in Kenya and China.
"The government will continue to leverage the strong and long-standing bilateral ties with China to enhance science and technology in the country. Science and technology are crucial enablers of economic growth and development," Ogamba said in a statement.
