Elimu Bora Group Slams Moses Kuria and Ruto Over Unconstitutional Education Policy, Calls it an Attack on Students’ Rights

By Bruno Aero 

The Elimu Bora Group has strongly condemned recent remarks made by Moses Kuria and President William Ruto, suggesting that students and pupils must register for the Student Health Insurance (SHA) and Student Health Fund (SHIF) or face being barred from reporting to school. The group argues that this policy violates Kenya’s Constitution and fundamental education laws.

In a statement released today, Cornelius Oduor, Deputy Executive Director of the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), voiced concerns that the mandatory registration requirements are unlawful and infringe on students' right to education as guaranteed by the Constitution.

"This policy directly contradicts the provisions in the Constitution that guarantee free and compulsory education for all Kenyan children," said Oduor. "No student should be denied access to education based on financial constraints, and this move further burdens already struggling families."

The Elimu Bora Group and KHRC have called for an immediate review of the policy to ensure it aligns with the legal framework for education and does not undermine the rights of students and families.

The Elimu Bora Group also criticized President Ruto’s recent comments on higher education funding, which they claim undermine the ongoing court process challenging the constitutionality of the new university funding model. The group warns that such remarks could negatively influence the judicial review of the matter, potentially disregarding the principles of fairness and transparency.

"The President's interference in an active court case is not only inappropriate but also undermines the rule of law and the constitutional rights of students," added Oduor. "This is a critical moment for the government to respect the legal process and ensure that education policies are just and equitable."

The Elimu Bora Group has called for urgent actions to rectify these issues and for the government to engage in more inclusive and constitutional discussions regarding education policies.