Gov’t orders crackdown on school bus curfew violations

The Ministry of Education has directed all its field officers to enforce strict compliance with traffic laws that restrict school bus operations to between 6am and 6pm, as outlined in the Traffic (Amendment) Act 2017.

Speaking during the 97th edition of the Kenya National Music Festivals in Meru, Principal Secretary for Basic Education Dr Julius Bitok said the Ministry is aware that some schools continue to flout the regulation, putting the lives of learners at risk.

“I am instructing all regional, county, and sub-county directors of education to ensure full compliance. Any school or individual found violating this directive will face the full force of the law,” he warned.

The curfew for school transport was introduced following a series of fatal road accidents involving school buses and is aimed at enhancing road safety for students.

“This is not just about the Music Festivals. It is the law and it applies everywhere. The Ministry will not compromise the safety of learners under any circumstances,” said the PS.

Dr. Bitok also announced that funds for accommodation and transport for students participating in the ongoing Music Festivals will be released immediately following consultations with the Sports Fund CEO.

In a move to further elevate the role of arts in education, the PS revealed that the Ministry is preparing a proposal to introduce an international platform for Kenya’s top student performers beyond the national State Gala.

“Why should Nationals or the State Gala be the peak? We want our best students to represent Kenya globally. This will be part of the President’s legacy in arts and culture,” he said.

At the same time, the PS issued a strong warning to any teacher or individual attempting to exploit students during the festivals, vowing that the Ministry would not tolerate such behavior.

“This is a children’s event. Anyone found exploiting or endangering our students—we will come for you. That era is over,” he said emphatically.

Dr. Bitok urged stakeholders to explore ways to monetize talent in the performing arts, especially for learners from underprivileged backgrounds.

“Our children are gifted. Let’s not just celebrate their talents—let’s empower them to earn from it. We must support structures that commercialize creativity without exploiting the artist,” he added.