Shock as schools receive Sh87 as capitation

By Newsflash Writer

Public school headteachers across the country are raising alarm over delayed and insufficient funding from the government, warning that continued inaction will paralyze learning activities.

The school heads say the recently announced government disbursements are grossly inadequate, with some institutions receiving as little as Sh87, while others got just a few thousand shillings.

One headteacher in Nyanza, who requested anonymity, expressed disbelief after confirming a credit of just Sh87 to his school’s account. “What can Sh87 do? This term will be a disaster. The Ministry even issued a circular threatening consequences if we seek assistance from parents. It’s time headteachers spoke out instead of suffering in silence,” he said.

Another head called on Parliament to intervene by summoning top Ministry of Education officials to explain the crisis. “Budgeting isn’t about promises—it requires actual money. How are we expected to function with nothing?” the teacher questioned.

Situation in Kisumu County

In Seme, Kisumu County, a headteacher running both a primary and junior secondary school described the dire conditions at his institution. He said the school received just over Sh4,000 for operations, which is grossly inadequate. “Our classrooms are falling apart—floors have gaping holes, windows are broken, and we don’t have enough space for junior secondary learners,” he said, adding that the Ministry’s failure to release sufficient funds was jeopardizing education.

When contacted, Nyanza Regional Director of Education Lawrence Karuntimi said he was unaware of such minimal disbursements and promised to follow up with the relevant authorities in Nairobi.

Kisumu County Education Executive John Awiti, a former high school principal and chair of the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association, warned that the funding delays could have long-term repercussions. “Education is the backbone of any society and must be prioritized. Delays or inadequate funding will ultimately harm the country’s future,” he said, urging all stakeholders to urgently address the situation in the interest of learners.