Release school capitation on time as exams kick-off

Vihiga County Education Director Alexie Muzame assisting grade 7 students during a hand and craft practical learning session at their institution on October 2, 2023. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

The chronic delay in releasing school capitation funds has placed immense strain on educational institutions even as the national examinations begin this month.

Schools are struggling to meet operational costs, purchase essential supplies and prepare students for the critical end-of-year examinations. The situation is particularly dire in rural areas where schools often rely solely on government funding.

The government's allocation of funds under the Free Day Secondary Education programme falls far short of the actual needs of many schools.

While the intention behind the programme is commendable, the inadequate funding and perennial delays have rendered it ineffective. Schools are forced to make difficult choices, often compromising the quality of education, to stay afloat.

The consequences of this financial crisis extend beyond the immediate disruption of examinations. The long-term impact on students' academic performance, their mental health and their future prospects is incalculable.

The delay in releasing funds has also created uncertainty and anxiety among teachers, parents and learners. The government must take immediate action to address this crisis and avert disruption of national examinations.

The release of school capitation funds is not merely a financial matter; it is also a matter of educational equity and social justice. By ensuring schools have the resources they need and on time, the government can safeguard the future of millions of Kenyan children.

Moreover, the government has also failed to honour part of its funding pledges and commitment as promised by President William Ruto. Last year, the President appointed a team to wholesomely look into the education sector.

In their recommendation, the team dubbed the 'Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms' proposed increased capitation to schools and inclusion of a flat rate funding to cushion schools with low enrollment, thus receiving little capitation funding. The President promised speedy implementation of the recommendations. However, more than one year later, the recommendations on funding have not been adopted.

Thus, the government must conduct a comprehensive review of the funding mechanisms for education. The current system is unsustainable and requires urgent reform. It is essential to establish a transparent and equitable system that ensures adequate funding for all schools, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.

Finally, continued failure by the government to provide adequate funding for schools risks jeopardising the future of the nation's youth. It is time for decisive action to ensure every child has access to quality education.

The National Treasury, Ministry of Education and all stakeholders must seek a seamless system where enough resources are sent to schools on a timely basis. It can be done.