Public Schools Cry for Help as Teachers Slam Govt Over Capitation Delays.
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has once again voiced strong dissatisfaction with the government over delayed student capitation, warning that the continued delays are hampering learning in public schools. The union accused the government of neglecting its responsibility, suggesting that it appeared to be taking the education sector lightly.
The union insisted that the delays were not only undermining the agreed schedule for disbursing capitation but also straining school operations and interrupting academic activities. Teachers stressed that learning could not proceed smoothly without timely financial support from the government.
In 2025, the government’s capitation disbursement plan was structured to release funds in clusters: 50 percent in the first term, 30 percent in the second term, and the remaining 20 percent in the third term. This funding structure was designed to fulfill the annual allocation of Ksh22,244 per learner, specifically intended to cover tuition costs, excluding meals and other critical operational expenses.
Despite this plan, by May, schools were still awaiting Ksh2,300 per student from the first term. This was despite prior assurances that half of the yearly funds would be released at the beginning of the academic year.
At the same time, the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) revealed that only Ksh4,000 per learner had been disbursed, instead of the expected Ksh8,000. As a result, schools had anticipated receiving Ksh28 billion for the term, yet only Ksh14 billion had been made available by then.
KNUT Deputy Secretary General Hesbon Otieno strongly urged the government to release the full capitation as agreed, stating that the lack of funds was jeopardizing learners’ right to education. He emphasized that even assessment fees, which had been initially omitted from the budget, needed to be included.
Otieno remarked that the government needed to stop making light of children’s education and fulfill its obligations so that learning could continue without further interruption. He underscored the point that schools were being forced to operate under tight financial constraints, endangering the quality of education being offered.
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His sentiments were echoed by KNUT Deputy Chairman Joseph Langat, who noted that funding was being released in bits and pieces, which made it difficult for schools to plan and function effectively. He pointed out that capitation was trickling in too slowly to meet operational demands.
While teachers have not yet issued any strike threats, the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) expressed deep concern over the implications of the continued delays. The association warned that if capitation funds were not released urgently, school heads might have no choice but to send learners home, leading to major disruptions in the academic calendar.
KESSHA emphasized that the funding crisis risked compromising not just school operations but also national education goals. The association’s warning served as a stark reminder of the potential fallout if the government failed to act promptly.
Amid growing pressure, the government responded in May by announcing the release of Ksh22 billion in capitation funds for the second term.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said the funds were designated to support all public basic education institutions. Specific allocations were set for Free Primary Education, Free Day Junior School Education, Special Needs Education in Junior Schools, and Free Day Secondary Education.
While this announcement brought partial relief, school administrators maintained that the funds remained insufficient and that the damage caused by earlier delays could not be easily undone.
Meanwhile, KNUT is maintaining a firm stance in ongoing contract negotiations. The union is now demanding a 60 percent salary increase along with a 30 percent rise in allowances for teachers, as part of a broader effort to improve the welfare and motivation of educators across the country.
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In a show of determination, a senior KNUT official said they would not accept anything less than what teachers deserved and that it was time for the government to stop making promises and start honoring them.
Despite the funding challenges, teachers remain committed to ensuring that learners stay in school. The push for better funding and pay reflects a deeper call for respect and investment in the country’s education system.
Public Schools Cry for Help as Teachers Slam Govt Over Capitation Delays.