Government Raises School Capitation After Funding Outcry

The government has announced a significant increase in funding for learners in public schools, just days after widespread public concern over the controversial Ksh95 capitation allocation.

Speaking on Tuesday, May 5, Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok revealed that the Ministry of Education will raise capitation per learner from Ksh1,420 to Ksh2,340. The increase is expected to take effect in July, marking the beginning of the new financial year.

According to Bitok, the move follows a directive issued by President William Ruto, signaling the government’s intention to strengthen financial support for public education. He emphasized that the ministry is fully committed to implementing the President’s directive without deviation.

“The President directed that we increase capitation from Ksh1,420 to Ksh2,340 starting next financial year. From where I sit, we are going to implement that directive to the letter,” Bitok stated.

The announcement comes in the wake of mounting public criticism after reports emerged that the government had disbursed only Ksh95 per learner, particularly affecting primary schools. The figure sparked outrage among parents, teachers, and education stakeholders, many of whom questioned whether the allocation was sufficient to support effective learning.

In response to the backlash, Bitok moved to clarify that the Ksh95 was not the total capitation amount but rather a portion specifically designated for learning materials within the broader Ksh1,420 allocation per learner each term.

He explained that the Ksh95.25 allocation is strictly earmarked for textbooks and stationery, while an additional Ksh93.08 is reserved for operational expenses such as maintenance, utilities, examinations, and other school needs.

“The Ksh95.25 per learner is for learning materials only, including books and stationery, while the Ksh93.08 supports school operations such as staff, maintenance, utilities, and exams,” Bitok clarified in a statement issued on April 29.

Breaking down the allocation further, the PS noted that the Ksh95.25 is distributed across specific categories. Exercise books receive the largest share at Ksh40 per learner, followed by Ksh35.25 for stationery. Teachers are allocated Ksh15 for guides and reference materials, while Ksh5 is set aside for textbook maintenance.

Beyond the increase in capitation, the Ministry of Education has also announced reforms in how funds are disbursed to schools. For years, delayed capitation has disrupted learning, with schools often receiving funds midway through the term or even towards its end.

However, Bitok said the government has taken steps to address this long-standing issue. Moving forward, capitation funds will be released to schools at least three days before the start of each term, ensuring institutions are better prepared to support learners from day one.

“For a long time, capitation was going to schools in the middle or towards the end of the term. But for the last two terms, and going forward, capitation will be going to schools at least three days before schools open,” he said.

The planned increase and improved disbursement timeline are expected to ease pressure on public schools, many of which have struggled with limited resources.

Education stakeholders are now watching closely to see how effectively the new measures will be implemented and whether they will translate into improved learning conditions across the country.

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