HAKIELIMU has called on the government to create an equitable environment for both English and Kiswahili medium public primary schools.

The organization questioned the rationale behind charging fees at English medium schools, arguing that the practice contradicts the education policy which mandates free education in public schools.

HakiElimu expressed concerns about the preferential treatment given to English medium schools which are often considered of higher status than Kiswahili medium schools. Dr John Kalage, Executive Director of HakiElimu, highlighted that the situation causes divisions within the education system.

He emphasized that both languages should be treated equally in education as stipulated in the Education and Training Policy of 2014, revised in 2023. Dr Kalage also criticized the fees charged by English medium public schools which violate the policy of free basic education.

The organization further discussed the recent statement from Ubungo District Commissioner about renovating and upgrading Ubungo National Housing Primary School to an English medium school. HakiElimu questioned the idea that English medium schools hold higher status.

The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has stated that introducing English medium schools aims to offer more options to parents and improve English proficiency among pupils.