Secondary school heads across the country have raised alarm over delays in capitation funds, warning that the disruption could derail learning and hamper school operations.
Two weeks into the third term, many schools are already struggling as funding for free basic education has yet to reach their accounts. The delay is affecting essential services, including feeding programs and the procurement of learning materials, leaving schools in a precarious financial position.
Martin Wanyonyi, principal of Chango Secondary School, revealed that some head teachers are facing immense pressure from suppliers due to unpaid bills. “At this time, head teachers are struggling even to stay in school; some of them are even hiding because suppliers are troubling them,” he said.
According to government funding policy, 50% of the allocated funds are expected to be released for the first term, 30% for the second term, and 20% for the third term. However, head teachers and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) say disbursements have been irregular, incomplete, and unreliable. Paul Kimmetto, KUPPET Secretary, noted that last term only 15% of the funds were received, leaving schools to grapple with mounting arrears.
The delay in funding comes at a critical time, with students preparing for national exams and assessments. Schools are increasingly sinking deeper into debt, struggling to pay suppliers and maintain essential services. Many institutions were forced to end the second term earlier than planned due to financial constraints, further disrupting the academic calendar.
School leaders are also calling for clarity on school fees policies, citing confusion when parents delay or fail to pay fees while government support remains inconsistent. “If you want to destroy a generation, take chances of education for that generation,” warned Jack Wamboka, Chair of the Public Investment Committee on Governance and Education at the National Assembly.
KUPPET and head teachers’ associations are urging the government to clear the arrears immediately and ensure timely disbursement of funds. Without urgent intervention, the looming financial crisis could force schools to suspend operations, jeopardizing the education of thousands of learners nationwide.
The situation underscores the urgent need for reliable funding mechanisms to safeguard the smooth delivery of education, particularly in the lead-up to national exams, where consistent resources are crucial for student success.
