Maua: The newly elected Board of Management (BOM) members from all schools in Igembe South subcounty have been urged to take their leadership roles seriously and actively participate in the smooth running and development of educational institutions. Speaking during the inauguration at Maua Girls Secondary School, Subcounty Education Officer Godana Barire emphasized the importance of understanding and executing the board's mandate effectively.
According to Kenya News Agency, the event gathered board members from primary and secondary schools across the subcounty and included representatives from the Member of Parliament's office. The Education Officer highlighted that the board's role extends beyond attending meetings and signing off on school documents, stressing that the quality of education heavily depends on the board's execution of its responsibilities.
A critical responsibility for the boards is overseeing school development projects, such as the construction of classrooms, laboratories, and sanitation facilities. The Education Officer stressed the importance of transparency and proper use of public funds, urging board members to ensure that all projects reflect value for money. Barire stated, "You are there to prevent misuse and ensure quality."
Financial oversight was another key area of focus. The officer explained that board members must scrutinize financial plans presented by school heads and ensure funds align with approved priorities. "You must take your time to go through the budget, ask questions, and hold the administration accountable. That is your duty to the school," Barire advised.
In addition to financial oversight, the Education Officer pointed out the importance of promoting discipline within schools. Board members were urged to support school heads in enforcing rules, managing staff concerns, and fostering a positive learning environment. "Discipline is the foundation of any successful institution," noted the officer.
Finally, the Education Officer encouraged BOM members to be actively involved in monitoring and supporting academic performance. Members should take an interest in school results, attend academic meetings, and help implement improvement strategies, especially in underperforming schools. "Regular engagement with teachers and students can make a big difference," the officer concluded.