Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos has directed all schools to release Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) certificates, including Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) and Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) certificates, to students who have completed their exams.
Speaking on Monday, March 17, Migos made it clear that no school has the authority to withhold these certificates, calling the practice illegal and unacceptable.
He stressed that students should not be denied their academic documents due to unpaid school fees, as this unfairly disadvantages them.
For years, many students in Kenya have been unable to collect their certificates because of outstanding fees, making it difficult for them to pursue further education or secure jobs.
Migos has now ordered all county education directors to investigate the matter and submit a comprehensive report within 14 days to ensure compliance with the new directive.
The CS warned school principals and headteachers against defying this order, stating that serious action would be taken against any school that fails to release the certificates.
He assured students and parents that the government is committed to ensuring equal access to education and opportunities, regardless of financial status.
Many parents and students have repeatedly raised concerns about withheld certificates, as school fees remain a major reason why institutions refuse to release them.
While some school administrators argue that unpaid fees negatively impact school operations, Migos maintained that students should not be punished for financial difficulties beyond their control.
To ensure full compliance, the Ministry of Education will continue monitoring schools closely. Migos urged parents and students to report any school that refuses to release certificates so that immediate action can be taken against them.
This directive comes as a huge relief for thousands of students who have been unable to access their certificates for years.
With this order in place, many learners will now have the chance to move forward in their education and careers without unnecessary obstacles.
Join Gen z and millennials TaskForce official 2025 WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time the ongoing situation https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
