Kenyan government has released KSh23.4 billion in capitation funds for the second term ahead of Monday school reopening, in a move aimed at ensuring uninterrupted learning across the country.
Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok said the funds are expected to hit schools accounts by Friday, giving administrators enough time to prepare for learners returning to class. The disbursement follows earlier concerns over delays that have previously disrupted school operations.
“The release of capitation before 27 April will enable schools to operate smoothly, while the distribution of Grade 10 textbooks guarantees that learners have the resources they need to succeed,” Bitok said during a briefing in Makueni on 31 March.
The early release of funds is part of a broader government strategy to stabilize the education sector and avoid disruptions that could affect academic progress. School heads often rely on capitation to cover essential expenses such as learning materials, utilities and operational costs.
Education stakeholders have in the past raised concerns about delayed disbursements, which have forced schools to accumulate debts or send students home. The latest move is expected to ease such pressures and support seamless learning across all levels.
Focus on CBC rollout and teacher consultations
Alongside the financial disbursement, the government is accelerating the distribution of learning materials, particularly Grade 10 textbooks, as part of the ongoing transition to the Competency-Based Education system.
Bitok emphasized that access to adequate learning resources remains a top priority, noting that the availability of textbooks is critical to learner performance and curriculum delivery.
The Ministry of Education also plans to allocate additional resources toward the development and printing of textbooks for technical and applied subjects. These subjects are considered central to strengthening practical skills under the new curriculum framework.
Meanwhile, consultations are ongoing between the Ministry of Education, the National Treasury and the Teachers Service Commission on the future of Junior School teachers. The discussions follow court rulings that questioned the current terms of engagement, raising uncertainty over their long term employment structure.
The government says it is working toward a sustainable solution that aligns with legal requirements while ensuring continuity in learning under the new system.
In addition, officials are engaging stakeholders and private sector players to streamline scholarship programmes. The aim is to improve efficiency, expand access to education and ensure fairness in allocation of opportunities to learners across the country.
Authorities say harmonizing public and privately funded scholarships will reduce duplication, enhance transparency and ensure that more deserving students benefit from available support.
The latest announcement underscores the government commitment to strengthening the education sector while supporting the transition to the Competency-Based Education system.
As schools prepare to reopen, education officials remain optimistic that the timely release of funds, improved coordination and ongoing reforms will provide a stable learning environment for millions of students nationwide.
