Kakamega — Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok has ordered all public schools to immediately adopt the government’s electronic procurement platform, warning that manual systems are no longer acceptable.
Speaking Friday during the commissioning of two new classrooms at St. James Esumeyia Primary School in Kakamega, Bitok said the e-procurement system will close gaps that have allowed mismanagement of funds and delays in school infrastructure projects.
“This system will track everything in real time from application submission to awarding of contracts and final payments. There will be no more excuses or shortcuts,” Bitok stated.
The digital procurement platform, known as the Electronic Government Procurement (EGP) system, is part of the government’s broader initiative to seal corruption loopholes in public spending. It replaces manual paperwork that has long been blamed for irregularities in school construction and supply contracts.
According to Bitok, full adoption of the platform will help schools follow procurement rules, cut down on interference, and speed up service delivery. “This is not optional,” he added. “All public schools must now transition fully to this system.”
Bitok was joined at the event by Higher Education PS Beatrice Inyangala and East African Community PS Caroline Karugu, both of whom reiterated the state’s pledge to improve learning environments across Kenya.
In his address, Bitok also spoke out strongly against illegal practices in schools, including corporal punishment and sexual misconduct. “These actions are criminal and must end. Anyone found guilty will be held accountable,” he said.
He confirmed that investigations were underway in Marsabit following a reported case of sexual abuse involving a teacher. “We are treating this matter seriously. The law will take its course,” he warned.
The newly commissioned classrooms in Kakamega were funded under the T.I.G. Project 2023/2024, a government program focused on expanding classroom space and improving basic learning infrastructure in underserved areas.
With pressure mounting to streamline school spending, the Ministry of Education now views e-procurement as a key solution to financial leaks and delays in the education sector.
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