By P, KNA
Murang’a county residents have raised concerns over the rising cost of basic education for learners and asked the government to take drastic steps to ease the burden on parents.
Speaking in Gatanga sub county, the residents decried that although basic education was assumed to be free, parents continued to shoulder the heavy financial costs to school their children to an extent that many households can no longer manage.
One parent, Monicah Njeri, said she has been forced to take foodstuffs and livestock to her child’s school in an effort to offset school charges, but even that has not been sufficient.
“I have nothing left at home; and with no source of income, I am unable to raise the money required to keep my child in school,” Njeri said.
She appealed to the government to intervene, noting that the reality does not match the promise of free education, as parents are still required to make significant contributions.
Another parent, Naomi Ndinda, said many a time financial hardship has forced her to keep her children at home, adding that she has sold most of her household property in a bid to meet school requirements.
“The government should ensure education is truly free or at least affordable, especially for families with little or no income.” Ndinda said.
Meanwhile, Gatanga Member of Parliament Edward Muriu urged the government to strengthen support for schools, saying limited funding was placing growing pressure on parents and learning institutions.
Speaking during issuance of bursaries to secondary school students, Muriu noted that delays and inadequate capitation had strained school operations, leading to increased costs being passed on to families.
He said increased investment in the education sector would help ease the burden on parents and improve the quality of learning.
“The funds released to schools are often not sufficient to cover existing obligations, which affects service delivery,” the MP said.
The MP called on the government to prioritize education financing, saying affordable education remains key to empowering communities and securing the country’s future.
