Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, on Friday, June 16, directed that teaching in schools should start at 8 am and end at 3:45 pm, which includes designated break times.

In a statement, the CS directed school heads to ensure that teaching hours account for a total of 6 hours. The CS emphasized that the allocated time was sufficient for effective teaching and learning. Furthermore, the designated timelines would allow students ample opportunities for independent reading and engagement in extracurricular activities.

"The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Ezekiel Machogu, has asked primary and secondary schools' headteachers to ensure teaching starts at 8.00 am and ends at 3.45 pm on weekdays.

"Machogu said the Ministry provides for a maximum of six hours of teaching, noting that the education of learners should be natural and not forced," read the statement in part.

The CS explained that several countries in the developed world had fewer teaching hours and still met their targets.

"He said Finland has a 3-hour teaching regime yet it is reputed to have a world-class system of education," read the statement in part.

Machogu issued the directive while meeting with officials from the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (KESSHA) led by the chairperson, Indimuli Kahi. 

During the Friday meeting, head teachers raised concerns over the prices of school uniform and delays in the disbursement of capitation funds. 

Other grievances revolved around the disbursement of curriculum materials, school uniforms and auditing of school finances.  

Machogu assured the school heads that the Ministry would set up a team to assess the issues raised and provide timely solutions. 

Education PS Belio Kipsang, on his end, called for self-regulation of the principals' association.