Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has sparked fresh debate after reports emerged suggesting he could be linked to a new wave of education reforms, including a return of yellow school buses and the introduction of a single uniform colour for learners across Kenya.
The proposals, still unconfirmed, have quickly gained attention online and among parents, teachers, and education stakeholders.
Many Kenyans remember Matiang’i’s tenure in government as a period marked by strict enforcement of school rules, tough national examination reforms, and tighter accountability measures for institutions.
Supporters of the idea argue that standardising school transport and uniforms could improve safety, reduce costs for parents, and promote equality among learners.
They say yellow buses are easier to identify on roads, making it simpler for authorities and communities to monitor school transport.
A single uniform colour, they add, could reduce pressure on families to buy expensive variations and help eliminate competition based on appearance.
However, critics warn that such changes may be costly and disruptive. School owners and administrators say repainting buses and replacing existing uniform stocks could burden institutions and parents.
Some also argue that school identity is closely tied to unique uniform colours and branding, which helps maintain discipline and pride among learners.
Education experts have urged the government to consult widely before introducing any policy shifts. They say reforms should focus on improving learning outcomes, reducing school fees, and addressing shortages in classrooms, teachers, and learning materials.
For now, no official statement has been issued confirming the proposals, but the conversation has reignited national interest in what could become Kenya’s next major school shake up.