Corona numbers in Kenya keep rising each day, dimming the hopes of resumption of learning any time soon. However, word from Jogoo House is so confusing that it would be difficult to take the prescription offered by the gynecologist in charge of the Kenyan children and the education system. Is learning continuing or will students start wherever they stopped in March? Will the institutions being used as quarantine centers be ready for use in two months when schools are expected to resume? How will the already stretched infrastructure in schools deal with social distancing requirements?
The confusion in communication and disconnect of the reality on the ground regarding the preparedness of public institutions are dizzying and could cause a fever, leading to a misdiagnosis that sends more people to quarantine centers. It is better to focus on what we can handle on a personal level.
Each student in collaboration with the parent or guardian is in charge of his or her learning. Do not just sit by and hope that the government or your college will sort things out. Covid-19 has ushered the world into a new order where money will be scarce. Unless you prepare, you will surely be caught flat-footed. Here are crucial conversations you must have with your college as you prepare for the uncertain resumption.
· Is Learning Still In Progress
Whether in a public or private university, word has it that some form of learning is taking place. Whether through notes, video, webinars, or other channels, you should demand clarity on curriculum coverage. It helps you to determine whether the interaction you are having with your lecturer is formal or just a revision. You will not be shocked by an exam announced two weeks after resumption yet you thought you had a month or more.
· What Difference Will Be There On Fees?
Schools have remained closed for three months. Will you be required to pay more fees after resumption or whatever you had paid will suffice? If you begin a new term, will the fees paid reduce, remain, or increase? The question about feels arises because of several factors.
o You are using your phone and internet bundles to access classes
o Internet-based learning is always cheaper than attending class
o Previous fees were based on the fact that you will get books, cheaper hostels, and one-on-one interaction with the lecturer. The expenses to access these amenities shift to your end. A reduction in tuition fees is the only way to compensate for the added expenses.
Students are entitled to a reasonable reduction or augmentation in feels. A change in learning mode must also reflect changes in expenses. The student or parent cannot bear the entire burden of the increased cost of learning.
· How Does It Affect College Completion Date
College completion date must remain a crucial factor in the life of a student. The fact that covid-19 has intervened should only serve as a detour in the pursuit of your academic and career goals. Remember that your age has not stopped, meaning that you risk finishing school older than you desired. The completion date is also important because of eligibility for scholarships and job opportunities. If you can finish school faster, explore those options, and take them up.
· Disruption Of Daily Finances
Students are dependent on HELB, support from parents or guardians, and other wellwishers. With the schools closed, this support could be cut yet the student must survive. If a student had not gone home or is required to study from home, he or she needs the stipend. The absence of such support could compromise learning and lead the student to engage in unwelcoming behavior. How will you cushion yourself from such inconvenience? Talk to your financiers and restrategize on how the necessary financial support will be sustained and restored upon resumption of school.
Certainty is crucial for students and parents as they away communication from the government on the reopening of schools in Kenya. These discussions with yourself and people involved in your education will cushion you from the shock that may arise from sudden reopening. The information you get from these dialogues will help you to prepare and, therefore, resume studies with greater ease.
