Delayed Capitation Funds and Fee Payments Jeopardize Smooth Running of Schools

Schools across the country are raising concerns over the delayed release of capitation funds, which have now arrived a month after the commencement of the second term. This significant delay threatens the seamless operation of educational institutions, particularly affecting the day-to-day activities and essential services required to maintain an effective learning environment.

Head teachers from both junior secondary and primary schools have voiced their struggles, noting that the delayed funds, coupled with the late payment of fees by parents, have exacerbated an already challenging situation. The financial strain is particularly acute in primary schools, which rely exclusively on government funding and are legally prohibited from charging any additional fees to parents. This dependency on government funds leaves primary schools vulnerable when there are delays in disbursement.

Johnson Nzioka, Chairman of the Kenya Primary Schools Heads Association, highlighted the precariousness of the current situation. “Primary schools are in a very delicate position because they are entirely dependent on government funding. Without these funds, the schools cannot operate smoothly or provide the necessary resources and support for the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC),” he stated.

The Competency-Based Curriculum, a critical aspect of the educational reform in Kenya, requires additional resources and support to be implemented effectively. The shortfall in government funding has forced many schools to struggle with supplementing teacher numbers and providing necessary materials, which directly impacts the quality of education the students receive.

Moreover, the delayed funds have led to operational challenges such as paying for utilities, purchasing essential learning materials, and maintaining school infrastructure. These financial bottlenecks create a challenging environment for both teachers and students, hindering the overall educational experience.

Parents, too, have faced difficulties in timely payment of school fees, further compounding the financial issues schools are experiencing. This situation calls for a coordinated effort between the government, parents, and educational stakeholders to find a sustainable solution that ensures timely disbursement of funds and fee payments.

In light of these challenges, there is an urgent need for the government to prioritize the timely release of capitation funds to schools. Ensuring that schools receive these funds at the beginning of the term would significantly mitigate the current operational difficulties and enhance the ability of educational institutions to provide quality education.

Furthermore, additional measures should be taken to support schools in managing delayed fee payments by parents. This could include more flexible payment plans or government-backed financial support to bridge the gap during such periods.