Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ezekiel Mbadi has announced that the government will release Sh48.8 billion in capitation funds to primary and secondary schools next week. This news comes after a period of uncertainty as schools across the country reopened for the first term of 2025 without receiving the usual funding, raising concerns about the smooth operation of the education system.
Mbadi’s comments, made during the launch of a borehole project in Kokona Village, Garsen Constituency, aimed to reassure school heads, teachers, and education stakeholders. He urged them to remain patient, as the National Treasury had already committed to disbursing the funds soon. According to Mbadi, the Sh48.8 billion represents 50% of the government’s education budget for the year, prioritizing the smooth operation of both primary and secondary institutions, including Junior Secondary Schools.
The delay in the release of the capitation money had caused widespread anxiety among school managers, many of whom had feared that the delay would result in a complete disruption of school activities. Some school heads were even considering sending learners home due to the lack of funds. Despite the looming financial challenges, the CS assured that the funds would be available in the coming week, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring that the education system remains fully operational.
The funding is allocated in three main categories: Sh4.1 billion for public primary schools, Sh15.3 billion for Day Junior Secondary Schools, and Sh28.9 billion for Day Secondary Schools. These funds are expected to support the running of schools, including paying for basic supplies and services, as well as other operational needs.
Beyond education, Mbadi also highlighted that once the capitation funds are disbursed, the next priority would be the release of Sh31 billion to the counties, followed by the allocation of Sh75 billion for civil servant salaries. He stressed the importance of education, referring to it as a critical social function that must be supported for the continued development of the country.
This assurance comes two weeks after Education CS Julius Ogamba had also promised that the first tranche of the capitation money would be available as schools opened in early January. The disbursement of these funds is vital for ensuring that students continue to learn without disruption and that the country’s education system remains robust throughout the academic year.
