Introduction: Delayed Capitation Funds Spark Concern
Education stakeholders have raised alarm over the delayed release of capitation funds owed to schools. School heads are expressing frustration, with the government releasing only Ksh.19 billion for capitation, leaving secondary schools yet to receive their share. This delay has intensified the pressure on the education system, with both the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) voicing concerns. You may like also Julius Ogamba Revamps Moi University Council and Names New Board
Government’s Explanation: Financial Crisis and Delayed Disbursements
The Ministry of Education has cited a financial crisis within the government as the reason behind the delay. They have assured that more funds will be disbursed by the end of the week to address the shortfall.
Amount Released So Far
So far, the National Treasury has disbursed Ksh.19 billion for basic education, but KNUT argues that this amount is inadequate to meet the needs of the education sector, especially when crucial expenses like infrastructure development remain unmet.
Challenges Faced by Schools Due to Limited Funds
Impact on Junior Secondary Schools and Infrastructure
KNUT has raised concerns about the lack of funds for vital infrastructure, particularly the setting up and equipping of classrooms for Junior Secondary Schools. Kisumu KNUT Executive Secretary David Obuon warned that if the funds were misallocated, it could create confusion and hinder the successful implementation of the competency-based curriculum (CBC).Click here Day Deadline for Parents to Register Students Under SHA
Secondary Schools Struggling Without Funds
Secondary schools are facing the most significant challenges, as they have not yet received any capitation funds. School heads are now warning that essential activities may stall without adequate funding.
Government Assurance: More Funds Coming
Disbursement Plans
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos assured that the government is working to release the remaining funds. He explained that the disbursement would be done in installments due to financial challenges, but by the end of the week, Ksh.14 billion will be released to schools.
Stakeholder Reactions: Concerns from Principals and Teachers
Rising Debts and Financial Strain
KESSHA National Chairperson Willie Kuria expressed hope that the promised funds would arrive soon, but acknowledged the existing debt from previous years. He emphasized the need to clear outstanding debts before taking on new ones.
Strain on School Heads
KUPPET Executive Secretary Zablon Awange highlighted the financial strain on school heads, who are increasingly using personal funds to keep schools running. With insufficient government funding and the absence of Form One students, Awange warned that the situation would become precarious.
Expected Capitation Amounts: Ksh.48 Billion Total for the First Term
The government had originally planned to disburse Ksh.48 billion for the first term of the academic calendar, with Ksh.28.9 billion earmarked for secondary schools and Ksh.4.1 billion for other expenses. However, the delay in capitation has raised concerns about the smooth operation of schools and the implementation of the competency-based curriculum.
Conclusion: Worries About Compromise in Education Delivery
The delay in the release of capitation funds has left many education stakeholders worried about the future of the competency-based curriculum and the general stability of the education sector. School heads are urging the government to address the financial shortfall to prevent further disruptions in the education system.
owsome