School administrators across Kenya are facing a financial crisis following the Treasury’s decision to reduce capitation. With drastically reduced funding, many headteachers are grappling with how to keep their schools operational.
Previously, each secondary school student received KSh 22,244 annually. With the capitation slash, schools now receive significantly less, yet the cost of utilities, learning materials, and maintenance continues to rise. Some heads report being unable to pay non-teaching staff or replenish critical supplies like chalk, paper, and cleaning agents.
Many headteachers are caught between adhering to government policies against charging illegal levies and the desperate need to maintain school services. Some have introduced unofficial development funds or resorted to asking parents for voluntary contributions.
KUPPET and KNUT have demanded that the government release full capitation before the start of each term. They warn that continued underfunding may lead to teacher strikes or learning disruptions. Unions also argue that teachers are being scapegoated for the government’s fiscal decisions.
Education experts are calling for a review of the education budget and better planning. Meanwhile, school heads urge the Ministry to provide emergency relief or allow for legal cost-sharing measures to ensure schools remain open.
