NAIROBI —As schools across Kenya settle into Term Two, the government has released KSh22 billion to support operations in public learning institutions a move meant to keep classrooms running and education accessible for all.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba confirmed the disbursement on Tuesday, saying the funds will go towards Free Primary Education, Junior Schools, and Secondary Schools. He stressed the government’s constitutional obligation to ensure every Kenyan child receives free and compulsory basic education.
“This money is not a favour. It’s a right enshrined in Article 53 of the Constitution,” Ogamba said in a statement.
How the Funds Break Down
According to figures released by the Ministry of Education, KSh1.37 billion has been allocated to Free Primary Education, while Junior Schools under the Free Day programme will receive KSh8.9 billion.
Students with special needs in Junior Schools have been earmarked KSh118.4 million, and the largest share KSh11.6 billion goes to Free Day Secondary Education.
The funding aims to cover the essentials: teaching materials, utilities, co-curricular activities, and school operations. The Ministry hopes the funds will ease pressure on school heads grappling with the rising cost of running public institutions.
Call for Accountability
But Ogamba didn’t stop at announcing the cash. He issued a sharp warning to school administrators against misusing the money.
“We will deal firmly with any verified cases of misappropriation,” he said, adding that any head teacher found imposing illegal levies on parents would face disciplinary action.
Past audits have revealed that some schools have mismanaged capitation funds or charged unauthorised fees, undermining the government’s goal of free education. With the new term underway, the Ministry says it will be stepping up monitoring efforts.
“We expect accountability and transparency. These funds are for learners not personal projects,” said Ogamba.
The Education Ministry continues to face scrutiny over delays and gaps in funding, but Tuesday’s announcement offers some relief to teachers and parents navigating a difficult term in the face of economic challenges.
For now, the focus shifts back to the classrooms where, across the country, millions of children are getting back to the business of learning.
