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The National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) have been lauded for playing a critical role in promoting access to education across the country.

President William Ruto who spoke during a meeting at the Kenya School of Government (KSG) revealed that his administration has enhanced the role of NGAO in promoting education with an aim of improving literacy rates across the nation.

According to a 2022 World Bank report, Kenya’s literacy rate among children aged between 0 and 15 years is at an impressive high of 82.88 percent.

The President urged the officers to prioritize education transition as a key performance indicator (KPI).

“We already have clear directions on transition from primary to junior secondary and eventually to senior secondary school. By empowering you as pivotal agents of change in Kenya’s educational landscape, the government is committed to bridging educational gaps and ensuring equal opportunities for all children,” emphasized the President.

On his part, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry, Prof. Kithure Kindiki highlighted the crucial role NGAO officers play in promoting education.

He particularly acknowledged the work done in tracing candidates throughout the year to ensure compliance with the government’s 100 percent school transition policy in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

“From the lowest administrative unit of the Assistant Chief, NGAOs continue to monitor and follow up on pupils and students who have completed their Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) and Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) to ensure they progress to the next level. In 2023, for example, NGAO facilitated the transition of about 1.2 million students to various Junior Secondary Schools,” said Kindiki. – PCS