Parents request timely capitation prior to the reopening of schools.
Parents nationwide have expressed concerns regarding the delays in the disbursement of capitation funds by the Ministry of Education, mere days before schools are set to reopen for the second term.
With educational institutions prepared to resume, school administrators and guardians apprehend that additional delays might disrupt operations, thereby adversely affecting the quality of education.
Public schools significantly depend on government-allocated funds to address operational expenses, including staff salaries, infrastructure maintenance, and learning materials. Nevertheless, ongoing delays in disbursement have resulted in numerous institutions struggling to fulfill their financial commitments.
“We cannot efficiently operate schools without timely funds,” stated Ann Langat, a parent representative from Bomet County. “Delays compel schools to impose additional levies on parents, many of whom are already grappling with elevated living costs. ”
Educational stakeholders are now advocating for enhanced oversight to guarantee that capitation funds are disbursed punctually. “The government must prioritize funding for education to prevent unnecessary disruptions,” remarked Grace Tanui, a teacher in Kericho. “Delays negatively impact both students and institutions. ”
As the day of reopening approaches, parents and school leaders remain optimistic that the ministry will respond promptly to avert another crisis.
The delayed release of capitation funds to public schools continues to be a persistent challenge, hindering learning and compelling institutions to operate with minimal budgets. Capitation funds, allocated per student through the Free Primary and Day Secondary Education programs, are intended to cover essential school expenditures, including textbooks, infrastructure, and operational costs. However, delays have become a commonplace issue, leaving school administrators in a state of financial distress.
“This is not an unprecedented concern—it recurs every term,” remarked Jane Muthoni, a teacher in Nakuru County. “We are compelled to borrow from suppliers or solicit additional contributions from parents, which ultimately undermines the principle of free education. ”
Consequences of delayed capitation include accumulated debts, overburdened parents, poor learning conditions, and postponed repairs, among others. The Ministry of Education has consistently vowed to ensure timely disbursement; however, delays continue to persist. In the financial year of 2023, Auditor-General reports indicated that certain schools received funds several months late, necessitating deficit spending.
“We are in the process of finalizing the funds and anticipate their release soon,” commented a ministry official who requested anonymity. Nevertheless, stakeholders remain doubtful, citing a lack of accountability. Educational experts argue that systemic inefficiencies, bureaucratic hurdles, and ineffective budget planning contribute to these delays.
“The government must automate and optimize the disbursement process to synchronize with school terms,” advised Dr. Moses Malawi, an educationist. “Delays compromise the fundamental principles of free education. ”