The National Treasury has reduced the budget allocation for the school feeding program by Ksh.2.4 billion, a decision that could have widespread implications for students across the country. The Ministry of Education revealed this budget cut during a session with the National Assembly’s committee on implementation, chaired by Budalangi MP Raphael Wanjala.
Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang informed MPs on Tuesday that the school feeding program had consistently received increased budgetary support until now. “In the school feeding, we received Ksh.1.96 billion in the 2022/2023 Financial Year. We also received Ksh.5.4 billion in the 2023/2024 Financial Year. But this time round we have a reduction and now we have been allocated Ksh.3 billion,” PS Kipsang stated.
The cut represents a significant drop from the previous year’s allocation, raising concerns among lawmakers about the potential impact on students who rely on these meals. Marakwet West MP Timothy Kipchumba expressed his concern, questioning the rationale behind the budget reduction. He warned that the cuts could force schools to ration food, negatively affecting learners’ nutrition and overall well-being.
The school feeding program has been a critical component of the education system, particularly in marginalized and drought-prone areas where children depend on these meals for their daily nutrition. The reduction in funding could exacerbate issues of food insecurity and malnutrition, potentially leading to higher dropout rates as students might opt to stay home in search of food.
The Ministry of Education had previously lauded the program for its role in improving school attendance and performance. With fewer resources, the program’s ability to sustain these benefits is now in jeopardy. Stakeholders in the education sector are calling for urgent measures to address the shortfall and ensure that students do not suffer due to the budget cuts.
As the National Assembly deliberates on this matter, there is a pressing need for innovative solutions and possibly seeking alternative funding sources to bridge the gap. The future of thousands of children hangs in the balance, making it imperative for policymakers to prioritize the school feeding program to safeguard the nation’s educational gains.
The reduction in the school feeding budget underscores the broader financial challenges facing the country. However, it is crucial for the government to balance fiscal austerity with the needs of its youngest citizens, ensuring that essential programs like school feeding remain robust and capable of supporting the nation’s future generations.
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