Policy Analysis, Formulation and Management

Policy Analysis, formulation and Management

Project Assignment

FREE PRIMARY EDUCATION (FPE) POLICY IN KENYA

Introduction

This paper analyses the FPE policy that came in place in 2002 immediately after the National Alliance Rainbow Coalition (NARC) government came in place.

Describe the problem situation that the policy is addressing

The FPE initiative focuses on attaining Education for All (EFA) and in particular, Universal Primary Education (UPE). Key concerns were access, retention, equity, quality and relevance and internal and external efficiencies within the education system. The policy was addressing the low enrollment levels in primary schools at the time and it sought to help increase the number of pupils enrolling for primary schools across the country. It also addressed the high drop-out rates among the pupils due to lack of school fees.

Describe the policy development process that was followed

NARC made the provision of free primary education as part of its election manifesto. On January 6th 2003 the minister for Education Science and technology launched the free primary education to fulfill its election pledge. Due to these fees and levies for tuition in primary education were abolished as the government and development partners were able to meet the cost of basic teaching and learning. The government reaffirmed considerable gains from FPE and the policy sounded commendable. Indeed it enabled children from poor social economic background to access schooling hence empowering themselves.

What are the policy goals and objectives?

Free Primary Education (FPE) policy aimed at the provision of education and training for all Kenyan children as fundamental to the success of the government overall development strategy. The policy aimed to improve enrolment rates in primary schools and also reduce the drop-out rates.

Identify five key policy issues

The five key policies issues of FPE are:

➢ Low enrolment rates

➢ Cost of education...