KUPPET Condemns Sh62 Billion Budget Cut, Warns of Collapse in Public Education

The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has raised alarm over massive budget cuts in the education sector, warning of a looming collapse of public education and a forced shift toward privatized learning.

Speaking to the press on Tuesday, KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori said the 2025/2026 budget estimates currently before the National Assembly reflect a Sh62 billion shortfall. He said the union was shocked by what he termed the government’s determination to defund public education.

“For the third year running, the government has radically slashed the education budget. Many critical budget lines recommended for funding under the Budget Policy Statement have either been drastically reduced or completely removed,” said Misori.

He noted that the estimates indicate zero funding for the management of national examinations, quality assurance, and modernization of the school information management system.

“The effect is that the Ministry’s Quality Assurance Department will no longer function. That means the assurance of quality in our education system is dead,” he said.

KUPPET warned that the removal of funding for examinations and related services would likely force parents to shoulder the costs. Misori also highlighted massive cuts to the school feeding programme, capitation for primary and junior secondary schools, and the Teachers Service Commission budget.

He said the Treasury had slashed all funds meant for confirming 20,000 intern junior secondary school teachers to permanent and pensionable terms. Additionally, no allocation has been made for the recruitment of another 20,000 teachers in January 2026, as promised by President William Ruto during Labour Day celebrations.

“These cuts represent the most ambitious rollback of social spending since independence,” Misori stated.

The Secretary-General further decried the government’s continued withdrawal from critical programmes, citing earlier cuts to Edu-Afya medical insurance, university research, and student loan schemes.

KUPPET also rejected a recent Ministry of Education circular incorporating junior school teachers into the Kenya Primary Schools Sports Association, terming it an attempt to undermine the autonomy of junior secondary schools. Misori demanded the circular’s immediate withdrawal and proper recognition of co-curricular activities in junior schools.

He warned that the continued defunding of education would lead to inequality, noting that underfunded public schools would collapse while parents are pushed into costly private alternatives.

“When a feeding programme is not funded, children from poor families stay home. This deepens inequality and undermines the right to education,” he said.

On capitation, Misori said schools were yet to receive the funds promised for second term, severely affecting operations.

“Delay in capitation delays service delivery. Teachers are being forced to call parents to raise money for basics like chalk, desks, and repairs,” he added.

KUPPET called on Parliament to reject the proposed budget cuts, warning that passing them would have long-term consequences on access, equity, and the overall quality of education.