Government Pledges Timely Funding for Schools Amid Fiscal Challenges

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that funds reach schools on time to facilitate smooth operations. Speaking at the ongoing 47th Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) Conference and Exhibition at Sheikh Zayed Hall in Mombasa, Gachagua emphasized the government’s dedication to supporting the education sector despite financial constraints.

The Deputy President addressed school heads and other participants, highlighting the challenges posed by a tight fiscal space, rising public debt, and dwindling revenue. He assured them that the government is working diligently to release funds promptly. “Regarding capitation, we face challenges with a tight fiscal space, escalating public debt, and diminishing revenue. We receive money from taxpayers, and we allocate it to you. When there’s a delay in receiving, there’s a delay in disbursement. We are doing our best to release the funds on time and will work together within the limited space,” he said.

In his speech, Gachagua also appealed to teachers and educational associations, including KESSHA, Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), and Kenya Union of Special Needs Education Teachers (KUSNET), to support government efforts in combating alcohol and substance abuse among school-going children across the country.

“Teachers play a critical role in shaping the moral compass of the young ones and society. You have a significant voice. Help us in this fight against illicit alcohol. If you have to drink, do so responsibly so that those who look up to you can emulate the right behavior. Protect our girls from predators. We count on you as leaders to provide the desired future for our students,” he urged.

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The Deputy President also highlighted the government’s substantial investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a strategy to equip the youth with competitive job market skills and address the rising unemployment rates in the country.

The KESSHA conference, an annual event, serves as a platform for secondary school heads to discuss critical issues affecting the education sector and share best practices. This year’s conference, attended by key stakeholders in education, underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to bolster the education system despite economic challenges.