Education Cabinet Secretary Professor George Magoha has stated that only universities and tertiary institutions which will pass the required health protocols will be allowed to re-open in September.
Prof. Magoha stated that only Strathmore University is trying to meet the requirements set by the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
So far, Magoha now says only three teachers training colleges in the country have attained the required percentage on putting in place COVID-19 containment measures recommended by the government.
The CS has revealed that the government has not cleared any other university in the country to reopen and those that may have declared themselves ready to resume learning are lying to students.
These are Murang’a Teachers Training College at 80 percent, Kericho TTC 70 percent followed by Asumbi Teachers Training College in Rangwe Sub County Homa Bay County at 65 percent.
The CS noted that officers from his ministry are on ground to inspect all universities and tertiary colleges to ensure they comply with health guidelines given to stem the spread of COVID-19.
“We are going to inspect all colleges and universities to ensure they meet the laid down guidelines before we allow them to re-open. Those which do not meet the requirement will remain closed,” said Magoha.
He said social distance of about 1.5 meters in lecture halls and hostels must be observed once the learners are allowed back to colleges.
“In universities, it’s easy to observe social distance and other needed requirements. The management of the institutes of higher learning may decide which faculties to re-open first and also which courses to be done online,” Magoha had said last week on a tour to Murang’a Training Institute.
Kenya is to implement a phased reopening of universities from September under strict guidelines, ending a four-month closure occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic.
Magoha says the reopening of universities for face-to-face sessions will be on a case-by-case basis based on approved compliance with the Ministry of Health COVID-19 protocols.
