Junior Secondary School (JSS) is not in motion as Grade Seven learners report to schools across the country.
The move has ushered in the second part of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
However, the implementation of the CBC is being hindered by financial issues and a lack of infrastructure with the government yet to provide the promised capitation of Kshs. 15,000 per learner.
There are still fresh concerns over whether the land is enough, classrooms and laboratories as well as an ample supply of water and power to accommodate junior secondary schools (JSS).
For example in some places schools are going to share resources with their neighbors. The Ministry of Education revealed in its recommendations that collaboration will benefit the teaching of practical subjects such as integrated science, agriculture, computer science, home science, and the visual and performing arts.
Other facilities required in JSS are a playing field, open spaces, athletics, games, physical fitness equipment, and health services.
Regarding psychological support, schools are also required to collaborate on issues concerning counseling, psychosocial support, and transport.
The ever-present issue of shortage of teachers is another problem facing many schools with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) currently going on with the process of recruiting an additional 35,000 teachers across the country.
To address the shortage of teachers, TSC will deploy primary teachers with diplomas and degree certificates to teach in Junior Secondary schools.
Admission Requirements for JSS
1) REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Students are required to provide the following documents:
- KPSEA assessment report (original and photocopy)
- Copy of birth certificate
- Copy of parent’s/guardian’s identification document (ID/Passport)
- 2 passport photographs
2) REQUIRED PERSONAL ITEMS
- Pens for writing
- Padlock(s)
- Bible/Koran (as may apply)
3) SCHOOL UNIFORMS
Parents are expected to cover the expense of the uniform. Uniforms can be bought from any uniform shop as long as they match the colors of the school. Besides, schools have effectively prequalified three uniform retailers and parents are free to buy at any time and from any vendor.
4) MEALS
Schools will provide a meal program for day scholars at a cost per term. However, this is an optional program with students who opt out of the program expected to bring packed lunch because the class duration is spread from morning to afternoon.
5) BOARDING FACILITIES
Some schools have boarding sections and admitted students will be provided with boarding services at a fee. Besides, parents will contribute personal items needed by their children while boarding.
NOTE: Boarding is optional.
6) FEES STRUCTURE FOR GRADE 7 BOARDERS 2023
The Government will pay a sum of Kshs. 15,000 per learner for Junior Secondary Learners who are day scholars. However, parents who admit learners to a boarding school will meet the boarding facility costs.