Trouble has rocked the Ministry of Education as distribution of literature books to secondary school hit the rock following a delay in signing the deal to commence printing.
The delay has now become a threat as the delivery of syllabus is set to be affected hence forcing some school principals asking parents to buy the set books.
According to Kenya Publishers Association chairman Lawrence Njagi, “Students have only eight months left before they sit the KCSE examination. Some students have completely refused to purchase the set books because they think principals are maliciously trying to make them buy the books while they sit on monies given for the books.”
The Education ministry had earlier sent a circular to principals announcing it will extend distribution of books to include literature set books.
The plan targeted 1.4 million learners in forms three and four. The purchase and distribution was expected to begin in January. But Kenya Publishers Association chairman Lawrence Njagi yesterday confirmed they are yet to get a nod from the ministry.
According to Kenya Parents Association chair Nicholas Maiyo, “The deal was good for those from a poor background. Some students only read set books in class where they share with their fellow students because they can’t afford.”
The textbook policy introduced last year mandates the Ministry of Education to buy and distribute textbooks.