Graduants at the 5th Uzima University graduation ceremony in Kisumu. Faith Matete Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has announced that Kenya has achieved a 98 percent transition rate of learners from primary to secondary school.
Ogamba says this has been possible following a government directive requiring schools to admit students regardless of their ability to pay fees or afford uniforms.
Speaking on Friday during the fifth graduation ceremony of Uzima University in Kisumu County, CS Ogamba said the policy shift had significantly improved admissions in a short time.
“Following our directive to admit learners without necessarily having fees or uniforms, we have moved admissions from 92 per cent last week to 98 per cent as of yesterday,” Ogamba said.
He added, “Our intention is to achieve 100 per cent transition by the end of today, in line with government policy.”
The CS urged school principals across the country to actively reach out to the remaining learners who are yet to report to secondary school, stressing that no child should be locked out of education due to financial constraints.
Ogamba noted that the Ministry of Education has also instructed education officers to collect data on all learners who have not transitioned, to enable targeted interventions.
This, he said, would help the government fulfil its constitutional mandate under Article 53, which guarantees every child the right to free and compulsory basic education.
“We are collecting data so that we can do what is necessary to ensure the constitutional mandate is fully realised,” he said.
He added, “Children should never again be denied education because of lack of uniform, school fees, or unapproved levies.”
Ogamba acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly around school uniforms and feeding programmes, but assured parents and guardians that the government is working on sustainable solutions.
He called for patience as the Ministry engages other government agencies to address these gaps.
“I urge parents to be patient as the Ministry and the government work towards solutions to issues of uniform and school feeding. Our commitment is clear: education must be accessible to every child,” he said.
In his address during the graduation, Ogamba commended Uzima University for its role in training health professionals and contributing to Kenya’s healthcare system.
He paid tribute to the institution’s founder, Archbishop Emeritus Zacchaeus Okoth, and recognised the support of regulatory bodies, including the Commission for University Education, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council, the Nursing Council of Kenya, and the Clinical Officers Council.
“Uzima’s story is one of steady and purposeful growth, grounded in service, professionalism, and excellence,” he said, adding that the university’s community-focused and competency-based training model aligns with the country’s health sector needs.
Addressing the graduands, Ogamba reminded them that their qualifications come with responsibility.
“What you receive today is not just a certificate, but a duty to serve with integrity, humility, and compassion. Let your light shine not only in hospitals and clinics but in the communities that need you most.”
He also highlighted ongoing health sector reforms under President William Ruto’s administration, noting that investments in infrastructure, workforce, and service delivery present opportunities for newly qualified health professionals to make a meaningful impact.
As the country pushes towards full school transition, Ogamba reiterated that education remains a top government priority.
“Our goal is simple. Every Kenyan child must be in school, learning, and preparing for a better future, without barriers.”
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