Public secondary schools in Kenya face a deepening funding crisis ahead of the 2025 exams, with capitation delays, debts, and resource shortages threatening candidates.
Kenya’s public secondary schools are facing an unprecedented funding crisis just weeks before the 2025 national examinations. Principals say that delayed capitation, growing debts, and inadequate allocations per learner have pushed schools to the brink of collapse.
Government funding per secondary school learner for third term is Sh3,044, but principals argue that the allocations for teaching materials and science practicals are far too little. Only Sh300 per learner has been released for exam preparations, far below the actual costs required.
“We are expected to buy science equipment, pay staff, and feed learners with this money. It is impossible,” lamented one principal. Many schools are now borrowing from banks and pleading with suppliers to extend credit just to remain operational.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education insists that the ongoing nationwide audit is necessary to eliminate inflated enrolments and safeguard taxpayers’ money. However, principals warn that the delays are paralyzing learning and could compromise exam integrity. With rehearsals set for October 17 and exams beginning October 21, time is running out for schools to stabilize operations.
