Nairobi County Launches Oversight Framework for School Boards

Nairobi County Launches Oversight Framework to Strengthen School Board Governance
In October 2025, the Nairobi City County Government unveiled a new oversight framework for school boards aimed at improving governance, transparency, and accountability in public learning institutions. The launch followed months of consultations with education stakeholders, including headteachers, parents, civil society groups, and Ministry of Education officials. The framework responds to growing concerns over mismanagement of school funds, weak board structures, and inconsistent compliance with national education policies.
The framework introduces mandatory training for all Board of Management (BOM) members on financial management, CBC implementation, inclusive education, and legal responsibilities under the Basic Education Act 2013. It also establishes annual performance audits, public reporting of board activities, and conflict-of-interest declarations. Term limits for board members and community engagement protocols are included to ensure that school governance remains transparent and participatory.
To support implementation, Nairobi County has developed a digital school governance dashboard that allows education officials to monitor board compliance, budget execution, and learner outcomes in real time. This system is expected to help curb financial irregularities and improve infrastructure planning. The framework will be rolled out in phases, starting with pilot schools in Embakasi, Dagoretti, and Westlands, before scaling to all public institutions by mid-2026.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, noting that it empowers school communities and aligns with national efforts to decentralize education governance. Nairobi County officials emphasized that strong school boards are essential for delivering quality education and safeguarding public resources. The framework complements the county’s broader School Improvement Blueprint and is expected to enhance accountability and equity in school management.