Concerns are mounting over a Sh48 billion shortfall in capitation funding for Kenya’s public schools, even as the government insists that disbursements are being made on schedule.
Education officials argue that timely release of funds demonstrates the government’s commitment to keeping schools running.
However, headteachers say the amounts received no longer reflect the real cost of managing learning institutions. Expenses such as electricity, water, learning materials, examinations, and co-curricular activities have risen sharply, while capitation rates have largely remained unchanged.
School administrators report increasing difficulty in meeting basic obligations, including paying suppliers, maintaining facilities, and supporting learners from vulnerable backgrounds. Many schools are reportedly forced to delay payments, accumulate debts, or cut back on essential services to stay afloat.
Parents have also expressed concern, noting that schools are increasingly requesting additional contributions. They argue this places a financial burden on households, despite public education being guaranteed as affordable.
Some worry that persistent funding gaps could deepen inequality, with learners from low-income families bearing the brunt of reduced resources.
The issue has drawn attention in Parliament, where lawmakers are questioning why capitation levels have not been adjusted to account for inflation and growing student enrolment.
Several MPs warned that the Sh48 billion deficit could weaken ongoing education reforms and undo progress made in access, retention, and quality.
“Releasing funds on time is not enough if the overall funding framework fails to match the actual cost of educating a child,” said some legislators.
Education stakeholders echoed these concerns, cautioning that overstretched schools may be forced to compromise on quality, leading to overcrowded classrooms, overworked teachers, and limited learning materials.
The government has acknowledged the financial strain but says it is operating within broader national budget constraints. Officials note that discussions are ongoing to balance education funding with competing demands from sectors such as health, security, and infrastructure.
Critics argue that education should be treated as a core investment rather than a flexible budget item, calling for urgent policy interventions to address the capitation gap and protect learning outcomes. View_more...
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