EDUCATION CS URGES MPS TO TONE DOWN CAPITATION DEBATE TO AVERT PUBLIC ANXIETY

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has called on Members of Parliament to avoid making alarmist statements regarding capitation funding in schools, saying such remarks risk creating unnecessary fear among parents and education stakeholders.
Speaking during a public engagement, Ogamba dismissed claims that the government had slashed capitation funding for secondary schools from KSh 22,000 to KSh 16,000 per learner.
“Nobody has ever said that we are reducing the money from KSh 22,000 to KSh 16,000. I don’t know where that came from,” said Ogamba.
The CS emphasized that the government remains fully committed to financing free primary and secondary education, urging leaders to share accurate information and avoid spreading fear.
His remarks come in the wake of recent concerns raised after Treasury CS John Mbadi stated that the government is not able to fully meet the capitation benchmark of KSh 22,244 per secondary school student due to budget constraints. Mbadi clarified, however, that while the full ideal amount isn't met, the government disburses what has been allocated in the budget.
Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok also weighed in, assuring the public that the free education policy remains intact and that no learner will be turned away due to lack of capitation funding. He added that the Ministry is working to improve efficiency and transparency in disbursements through the Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS).
The Ministry of Education has called for calm and constructive engagement from all stakeholders as it works with the Treasury and Parliament to ensure the sustainability of Kenya’s free education program.