By Grace Waithaka
KNUT has called on the government to release capitation funds urgently to ensure smooth learning in public schools. Speaking in Ruring'u Nyeri county KNUT National Chairman Mr. Patrick Karinga Munuhe decried the delays, noting that the lack of capitation has paralyzed operations in many schools.
“The delayed disbursement has left school heads grappling with difficult decisions on how to keep institutions running. We urge the government to act swiftly to avert further disruptions as learners settle into the new academic year,” Mr. Karinga said.
The government is expected to disburse KSh 48.4 billion to all public primary and secondary schools for the first term. However, concerns have arisen following unresolved issues from the previous term. According to Mr. Karinga, schools were not allocated the full capitation amount last term, leaving a deficit of KSh 7,000 per student from the expected KSh 22,000.
“This shortfall forced schools to close with debts, including unpaid staff salaries. Without immediate intervention, the situation will worsen,” he warned.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, in a statement issued on January 4, assured stakeholders that capitation funds for the first term would be disbursed on time to mitigate financial challenges. However, as the new academic term progresses, delays persist, prompting KNUT’s urgent appeal.
The union emphasized that timely funding is critical to avoid disruptions in learning and to enable schools to meet operational costs effectively.