Gov’t to Start Construction of 16,000 Classrooms for JSS.
The government of Kenya is set to commence the construction of 16,000 classrooms for Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) starting next Monday.
This major initiative, announced by Dr. Belio Kipsang’, the Principal Secretary for Basic Education, aims to facilitate the transition of students to Grade 9 under the new Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
Project Overview
Funding and Timeline:
- Funding Source: The project is funded by the World Bank under the Kenya Primary Education Equity in Learning (KPEEL) programme.
- Completion Date: Expected to be completed by 2025.
Key Project Details:
- Number of Classrooms: 16,000
- Target: Support the transition to Grade 9
- Implementation Start Date: Next Monday
Project Management Guidelines
Dr. Kipsang’ outlined specific guidelines to ensure the efficiency and transparency of the project. These guidelines are directed at regional, county, and sub-county directors, as well as the schools involved.
- Dedicated Project Account:
- Schools must open a dedicated project account.
- The account should have signatures from the Board of Management (BOM) chairpersons, the Junior School Committee, the Parents Association, and the school head.
- Adherence to Designs and Bill of Quantities (BQs):
- Schools must strictly follow the designs and BQs provided by the Ministry of Education.
- Materials used in construction must meet the specified standards.
- Proper Financial Documentation:
- Schools are required to maintain detailed financial records.
- This includes payment vouchers, invoices, cash sales receipts, fund receipts and expenditure summaries, bank statements, and board meeting minutes.
- Compliance with Public Procurement and Assets Disposal Act, 2015:
- Schools must adhere to Sections 91 and 92 of the Act to ensure proper procurement processes.
- Environmental and Social Safeguards:
- Schools must implement safeguards to manage environmental and social risks.
- This includes child protection, learner safety, and waste management.
Earlier this month, Dr. Kipsang’ reiterated the government’s commitment to constructing 16,000 classrooms nationwide.
This effort is part of the broader strategy to prepare for the transition to Junior Secondary School under the new CBC. These classrooms will be integrated within primary schools across the country, supporting the first cohort of students to experience the JSS system.
This classroom construction initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing educational infrastructure in Kenya. It aligns with the government’s objective of ensuring a smooth transition to the new curriculum and providing adequate learning facilities for students.
The project also emphasizes the importance of accountability, transparency, and environmental considerations in public infrastructure projects.
For more updates and detailed information on the project’s progress, stay tuned to the Ministry of Education’s announcements and the TSC’s official communications.
Gov’t to Start Construction of 16,000 Classrooms for JSS.
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