“It is unacceptable for politicians to stir public emotions by demanding national status for schools without considering academic merit or national integration,” Ogamba stated. “We will not allow our education system to be dragged into political contests.”
"Hands Off Our Schools” CS Ogamba Slams Politicians Over National School Status Row
The CS made the remarks amid growing pressure from some local leaders who are lobbying for schools in their constituencies to be elevated to national status.
Ogamba maintained that while development of schools across all regions is a priority, the criteria for national school recognition must remain professional and objective.
He reminded the public that national schools serve a key role in promoting unity and excellence by admitting top-performing students from all parts of the country.
“National schools are not trophies to be won through political noise they are centres of academic excellence meant to serve the entire nation,” he added.
Ogamba also clarified that the Ministry of Education has a structured framework for upgrading schools, which includes evaluation of facilities, consistent performance in national exams, and the capacity to host students from diverse backgrounds.
“We are reviewing several schools for upgrade, but this will be based purely on data and national needs, not political pressure,” he reiterated.
Education stakeholders supported the CS’s stance, warning that politicising education risks undermining standards and distorting the purpose of reforms such as the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
CS Ogamba’s firm stand comes at a critical time as the government continues to roll out reforms under CBC and prepare for the next phase of senior school placements.
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