Public schools in Kenya are facing a significant financial crisis, two weeks after the reopening of schools, as the government has yet to release crucial capitation funds. The Kenya National Secondary Schools Association (KESSHA) has raised alarm over the situation, with school heads reporting a backlog of Sh64 billion in capitation arrears, some of which have been accumulating for the past four years.
Despite earlier assurances from the government that Sh48.8 billion 50% of the total capitation budget for the 2025 academic year would be disbursed, schools have not seen any relief. Headteachers are now warning that learning could be paralyzed if the funds are not released soon.
KESSHA chairperson Willy Kuria, also the principal of Murang’a High School, expressed the urgency of the situation, stating that the funds are critical to ensuring the smooth operation of schools. “The state should release the Sh64 billion backlog of capitation that has been withheld over the last four years so that we can clear debts,” Kuria said. He explained that schools are struggling to pay off outstanding bills for services like utilities, water, and electricity, and suppliers are camping at school offices demanding payment.
Kuria further revealed that schools face a significant deficit, with some institutions reporting a shortfall of about Sh7,000 per learner. The financial strain is compounded by debts that range from Sh20 million to Sh70 million per school. “Principals are being forced to endure harassment from suppliers who are at their offices demanding payment,” he said.
Last week, the National Treasury assured schools that the Sh48.8 billion would be released in the coming days. However, Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, in a statement, urged school managers and teachers to remain patient. “Schools don’t panic, teachers don’t panic, school managers don’t panic. Next week, Treasury will release Sh48.8 billion, which is 50% of this year’s budget to fund our education system,” Machogu assured.
The government has prioritized the disbursement of capitation funds, particularly for primary, junior secondary, and secondary schools. However, with schools still waiting for these funds, the financial challenges are becoming more pressing. Unless the government acts swiftly, the risk of disrupting learning in public schools remains high.
This ongoing financial crisis highlights the need for timely and adequate funding for the education sector, which is crucial to the development and stability of Kenya’s future. The government must prioritize clearing the backlog and ensuring that schools are equipped to continue offering quality education.
