The discontent erupted during a parents’ meeting convened on Tuesday, where dozens of parents voiced frustration over what they termed a lack of transparency, accountability, and disregard for stakeholder engagement in school governance.
According to Ms. Darlyn , a parent with four children enrolled at the school, the fee hike was communicated abruptly toward the end of the term, leaving families financially unprepared. “We were shocked to receive a notice indicating a 20 percent increase.
Parents need time to plan and budget. The board should have called for a meeting to explain the rationale behind the hike,” she said. Mbaya added that the parents have requested a forensic audit to determine how school funds have been utilized in previous years before any fee increment is implemented.
Dr. Mugo another parent, echoed similar sentiments, urging the school to prioritize inclusivity and accountability. “While we understand that the cost of living has gone up, it is unfair for the board to impose new fees without consulting parents. We are calling for a more inclusive board that has parent representation to ensure decisions are compassionate and practical,” he said. He also proposed that the school invest in internal infrastructure such as a swimming pool to cut costs and enhance students’ extracurricular opportunities.
The Parents’ Representative Chairman, Mr. Daniel, accused the board of neglecting its duty to engage stakeholders. He revealed that the BOM had not met parents for over three years. “We have raised issues ranging from deteriorating school facilities, poor food quality, and under-resourced laboratories, but no one is listening. The board refused to attend today’s meeting, which shows a clear lack of commitment to dialogue,” he stated.
Parents also questioned the close ties between the school and the church, calling for separation of management to enhance professionalism. “Not all parents attend the church. The school should have an independent governance structure in line with the Education Act,” said Mbaya.
Christine, lamented the absence of financial accountability and feedback from the church, which oversees the school. “As a Christian institution, we expect transparency. Yet, the board has never presented financial reports or justified the fee increase,” she said.
Parents are now demanding the BOM to halt the planned increase, publish an audit report, and hold a joint meeting with all stakeholders to chart a way forward, warning that continued disregard could escalate tensions further.
