The Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Dr. Belio Kipsang, says the presence of parents in the lives of their children is the best way to prevent children from drug abuse and truancy.

Dr. Kipsang said 97% and 72% of primary schools and secondary schools, respectively, are day schools, meaning the majority of learners in basic education are under the custodial care of their parents and guardians.

He said there is therefore need for parents to be more available in the lives of their children first to know them better and, secondly, help nurture their growth and development.

Dr. Kipsang made the remarks when he chaired the public sector hearings for the 20024/25 financial year and Medium-Term Budget for Education Sector at the Kenya Institute of Monetary Studies last on Wednesday.

Present were the Principal Secretary for University Education and Research, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, the Principal Secretary for Technical, Vocational Education and Training, Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Teachers Service Commission, (TSC), Dr. Nancy Macharia.