Public primary and secondary schools in Kenya are currently facing a serious financial crisis because the government has delayed the release of Sh21 billion in capitation funds. This delay has come at a very difficult time, as the second term is already in its third week.
Many schools are now struggling to pay their non-teaching staff, settle utility bills, and provide essential learning materials. This has caused major challenges in how schools are operating and has led to disruption of important learning activities.
The Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba had earlier promised that the funds would be released by the end of the second week of the term. However, that promise has not been fulfilled, and the schools are still waiting.
Because of this, many school administrators are finding it hard to manage their institutions. Without funds, they cannot pay cleaners, cooks, and other support staff, and this is affecting the general running of schools. Electricity and water bills are also pending, which means basic services could soon be cut off in many schools if the delay continues.
One of the most worrying effects of this crisis is how it is affecting the preparation for national assessments. Grade 9 learners who are supposed to do practical assessments are the most affected. In some schools, materials for technical subjects like science and computer studies are not available because there is no money to buy them. This could mean that learners will not get the full experience or the marks they deserve in their assessments.
It also puts teachers in a difficult position because they are expected to deliver quality education without the right tools.Several education stakeholders have already spoken out about the crisis. Fuad Ali, who is the chairman of the Kenya Primary School Heads Association, has asked the government to act quickly.
He said the delay is hurting the entire school system, including both primary and junior secondary learners. His concerns have been echoed by the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association, which warned that if the funds are not released soon, some schools may have no choice but to send students home.The Treasury has now promised that the Sh21 billion will be released within the week.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura also admitted that schools are under pressure but assured that the money is on its way. Despite these assurances, many school leaders are still worried because they have heard similar promises before without any action.
Teachers, parents, and learners all hope that the funds will be released immediately to avoid more damage to the education system.
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