CS John Mbadi Dismisses Exam Fee Fears: “No Parent Will Pay for KCSE”
Speaking on Ramogi FM on Wednesday, May 14, Mbadi strongly dismissed claims circulating across the country.
“We have not removed the money so that parents can pay,” Mbadi stated.
“No parent will pay the examination fees,” he emphasized.
Treasury Cites Past Misuse of Exam Funds
“We are trying to assess various things, including why the government should pay a student’s examination fees,” he said.
Mbadi questioned the cost and location of exam printing.

“Why must our examinations be printed in London, England, just a mere examination?” he asked.
“As a minister, why should the government pay my child’s examination fees?”
Parliament Blames Treasury for ‘Sabotaging Education’
Hours earlier, the Parliamentary Education Committee had blasted the Treasury for presenting a budget with zero funding for KCSE.
Led by Chairman Julius Melly, the committee didn’t hold back.
“Exams are activities that take place at the end of every year,” Melly noted.
“Summative exams have to take place. But you have presented a budget with zero. Why is it not in the budget?”
The lawmakers accused the Treasury of crippling education and sabotaging learners’ futures.
Education Ministry Responds, Seeks Treasury Talks
Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok admitted the existence of a funding gap. However, he assured the nation that all students would sit their exams without fail.

“We assure the public that we are discussing with the National Treasury to ensure that we address this issue,” PS Bitok said.
He promised that talks were underway between the Education Ministry, Treasury, and KNEC to solve the matter urgently.
Hope for Students Amid Budget Crisis
Despite the tension, Mbadi reassured parents and candidates.
“No parent will be burdened with exam costs,” he repeated.
The government’s move aims to tighten controls, end corruption, and safeguard public funds, while ensuring every learner gets equal opportunity.
ALSO READ: Govt to End KNEC, Introduces AI for Exam Marking in New Proposal
CS John Mbadi Dismisses Exam Fee Fears: “No Parent Will Pay for KCSE”

