Education CS Julius Ogamba has reassured that the remaining Ksh 14 billion capitation funds will be deposited into school accounts next week, ensuring smooth operations.
During a Thursday meeting with principals from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions at Eldoret National Polytechnic, Ogamba said that his ministry was actively collaborating with the Treasury to ensure the funds reach schools by the end of the following week.
Despite these challenges, Ogamba maintained that parents should not bear the financial burden. “School fees are not the responsibility of parents. The government provides funding through capitation, and we are doing everything possible to ensure the outstanding Ksh 14 billion is paid,” he stated,
Under the Free Primary Education Programme, the government allocates Ksh 1,420 per student. Junior school learners receive Ksh 15,042 each, while secondary school students under the Free Day Secondary Education programme are allocated Ksh 22,244 per learner.
While these figures seem promising, delayed disbursements have distressed schools financially.
Many institutions have struggled to stay afloat, with some sending students home over unpaid fees and resorting to severe cost-cutting measures. School administrators have been left juggling finances under immense pressure, with little room for error.
Rather than releasing funds in one instalment, the government distributes them in three phases. For the First term, capitation was 50 per cent of the total allocation; for the second term, 30 per cent; and for the Third term, 20 per cent.
This system is intended to maintain a steady flow of funds for schools. However, delays in these payments have significantly disrupted school operations, leaving many institutions struggling to cover expenses.
Ogamba also addressed the issue of school governance, cautioning against political interference in the management of educational institutions. He stressed that school boards must remain focused on their core responsibilities.
“Public institutions will fail without professionalism and integrity in administration and financial management. School heads must demonstrate strong leadership,” he said.
By Joseph Mambili
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