Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has assured secondary school heads that the government is working closely with the National Treasury to facilitate the release of the remaining Ksh14 billion for first-term capitation. Speaking at the Eldoret National Polytechnic during the quarterly meeting for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) principals, the CS urged school heads not to send students home due to the delays.
Ogamba emphasized that school fees for public secondary schools are paid through government capitation, not directly by parents. He reassured stakeholders that a ministry team is already engaging with the Treasury to expedite the release of funds, which he hopes will be disbursed by next week.
“It is not the parents who pay the fees; it’s paid through capitation from the government. We are doing everything possible to ensure the balance is paid, hopefully by the coming week,” said Ogamba.
He further stated that the government is working on a sustainable mechanism to prevent similar delays in the future, ensuring timely disbursement of funds to schools.
University Funding Model Under Review
On the ongoing debate regarding the university funding model, CS Ogamba disclosed that the presidential review team formed by President William Ruto is finalizing its report. The team has assessed concerns raised by Kenyans, including issues presented in court, and aims to develop a funding model that addresses past challenges. The CS expressed confidence that the new model will be in place by September, when the next cohort of students reports to universities.
“We want to ensure that the findings are implemented so that by the time the new cohort of students report in September, we will utilize a funding model that will fit the purpose, devoid of challenges faced by the previous model,” he stated.
Integrity in Public Institutions
Ogamba also underscored the importance of professionalism and governance in managing public institutions. He warned against interference by boards, principals, and vice-chancellors, vowing stern action against individuals politicizing institutions or failing in their duties.
Expanding TVET Enrollment
Addressing the role of TVETs, Ogamba revealed plans to absorb a significant portion of the 3.5 to 4 million youths currently unemployed or out of school into vocational training institutions. This, he noted, is key to addressing the skills gap and unemployment in the country.
