Education Sector Faces Crisis as KUPPET Warns of Delayed Capitation

The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has sounded the alarm over a looming education crisis following the delayed disbursement of capitation funds by the government. School heads across the country are reportedly struggling to keep institutions running, with some forced to send students home due to insufficient resources.

KUPPET Deputy Secretary General Moses Nthurima expressed frustration, stating that despite assurances from Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, the National Treasury has yet to release Sh28 billion earmarked for Term One.

“The government was expected to remit about Sh11,000 per student this term but has only disbursed Sh4,000 so far. We are now past the halfway mark of the term, yet there is no sign of the remaining funds,” Nthurima stated in Naivasha.

He criticized the Education Ministry for prioritizing infrastructure projects over urgent financial needs, noting that plans to build new laboratories for Grade 10 students should not overshadow the immediate funding crisis in schools.

“The government must act swiftly to clear all pending payments in the education sector, amounting to approximately Sh64 billion. This backlog, which includes capitation arrears dating back to 2018, is jeopardizing the future of our children. Education funding delays are unacceptable, and we demand the release of funds within seven days,” Nthurima declared.

Despite mounting concerns, Education CS Ogamba has reassured parents and educators that Sh14 billion will be released this week. He emphasized that his ministry is working closely with the Treasury to ensure timely disbursement, urging school heads to refrain from sending students home.

“We are doing everything possible to ensure the balance is paid,” Ogamba affirmed.

However, KUPPET National Chairman Omboko Milemba questioned the CS’s optimism, arguing that the situation on the ground contradicts government statements.

“While the minister speaks from Nairobi, schools are in turmoil. The focus should be on ensuring a smooth transition for learners rather than constructing new laboratories in schools that already have functional facilities. Instead of hiring new teachers, existing staff could be reassigned to handle Grade 9,” Milemba suggested.

KUPPET has also raised concerns about delays in the teachers’ medical scheme, with Sh11 billion yet to be disbursed. The union revealed that some private hospitals have begun denying teachers healthcare services, forcing them to rely on overburdened public hospitals.

“We have tried all diplomatic channels, but it seems the government has no urgency in resolving these issues. If these concerns remain unaddressed, teachers will have no option but to take collective action,” Nthurima warned.

With uncertainty hanging over the education sector, stakeholders are now keenly watching whether the government will fulfill its financial commitments or if the crisis will escalate further.

In other news:The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has sounded the alarm over a looming education crisis

Education Sector Faces Crisis as KUPPET Warns of Delayed Capitation