Ministry’s Decision to Reduce School Capitation Amid Rising Enrollment.
In a recent development, the Ministry of Education has announced a reduction in school capitation funds under the Free Secondary Education program, citing a significant shortfall of Sh22 billion. This decision comes despite a notable increase in student enrollment over the years.
Basic Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang revealed that the government has maintained a flat rate of Sh54 billion for capitation over the past six years. However, this allocation falls short of meeting the needs of the growing student population, which currently stands at 4.2 million learners compared to the funded capacity of 3.2 million.
The reduction in capitation funds from Sh22,224 to approximately Sh17,000 per student has raised concerns about schools’ ability to provide essential resources such as learning materials and proper nutrition. This move could potentially hinder the quality of education and overall well-being of students.
Short-Term Relief and Future Plans
Despite the current funding challenges, the ministry anticipates a temporary relief once the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidates exit in November, coupled with a break in Form One admissions in 2025. This is expected to reduce the funding gap from Sh22 billion to around Sh11 billion.
The ministry has assured stakeholders that the remaining deficit will be addressed in the upcoming 2024/2025 budget allocation, following consultations with the Education committee. Plans are underway to allocate Sh22,224 per student to ensure adequate funding for teaching and learning activities in schools.
Responding to concerns from school heads regarding the delay in capitation funds, Kipsang indcates that Sh16.25 billion pending disbursement to public secondary schools will be out within the next 10 days. This is part of the government’s commitment to meeting its financial obligations to educational institutions.
Long-standing Debt and Funding Shortfalls
The issue of inadequate funding and accumulated debt has been a long-standing challenge for schools. Head teachers have previously petitioned Parliament to address a debt of Sh54 billion owed to schools over a five-year period, highlighting the significant impact of funding shortfalls on educational quality.
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In addition to financial challenges, the ministry is also addressing concerns about illegal fees and extra levies imposed by some schools. Plans are underway to introduce legislation aimed at curbing such practices and ensuring that schools operate within the prescribed guidelines.
Legislative Reforms and Enforcement
The ministry has prepared Bills aligned with recommendations from the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms to strengthen enforcement mechanisms against rogue school heads charging illegal fees. These legislative reforms aim to enhance accountability and transparency in the education sector.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Education’s decision to reduce school capitation funds amidst a surge in enrollment reflects the ongoing challenges in balancing financial resources with the increasing demand for quality education. While short-term measures are under implementation to address immediate funding gaps, long-term solutions through legislative reforms and budget allocations are crucial to ensuring sustained support for schools and students across the country.
Ministry’s Decision to Reduce School Capitation Amid Rising Enrollment.