Amidst a growing tension between the Catholic Church and the Kenyan government, concerns have been raised regarding the government’s perceived attempts to exert control over church-sponsored schools. The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has expressed alarm over proposed bills that could potentially diminish the autonomy traditionally held by religious organizations in managing educational institutions. This clash highlights a broader issue of the government’s influence on the educational sector and its impact on society as a whole.
Archbishop Maurice Muhatia of Kisumu, the newly appointed KCCB chairperson, has been vocal about the church’s reservations regarding the government’s intentions. He emphasized that the proposed legislation, particularly the Basic Education Bill and Universities (Amendment) Bill of 2024, signals a significant departure from the existing relationship between the government and church-sponsored schools. The Catholic Church, known for its extensive network of educational facilities across Kenya, plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s educational landscape.
The Catholic Church’s concerns stem from the perceived shift in power dynamics that the proposed bills could bring about. With the government potentially gaining more authority over decision-making processes in private and church-sponsored schools, there are fears that the autonomy and values upheld by religious institutions could be compromised. Archbishop Muhatia’s remarks underscore the deep-rooted apprehensions within the Catholic Church regarding the government’s influence on education and the preservation of moral values in society.