KUPPET justifies school fees increase, blames delayed capitation

Parents are now facing increased financial pressure after school principals raised fees for the second term.

As learners resume classes for the new term, many parents have voiced frustrations over the rising cost of education and new charges introduced by schools, moves that appear to contradict a government directive prohibiting fee increments.

Nevertheless, officials from the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) in Bungoma County, led by Branch Executive Secretary Augustine Kundu Luketelo, have come to the defense of school heads.

They argue that the fee hikes are necessary due to delays in the disbursement of government capitation funds, which schools rely on to operate.

Moreover, the officials contended that the government often disburses capitation funds incompletely, severely hampering school operations and compelling principals to increase fees in order to sustain daily activities.

"Some people are complaining about additional school fees charged by principals. But principals are under pressure — government capitation is never enough and is rarely paid in full. Inflation has gone up, so there is no way schools can be run and maintained without parents contributing some extra cash," Luketelo said.

As the second term begins its second day, schools are still waiting for capitation funds to be released.

Education officials are now urging the government to disburse the money by Friday, warning that academic activities may be disrupted if the delay continues.

"We had anticipated the funds would be in school accounts before reopening, but that hasn’t happened. We are now appealing to the government to ensure the money is released by Friday," the officials said.

The delay in disbursing capitation funds is causing concern at a critical time for schools, as Grade 9 students prepare to select their senior secondary education pathways.

Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Secretary General Hesbon Otieno, speaking on Sunday, emphasized the urgent need for the government to release the funds.

He said the money is essential for supporting a smooth transition as students move into Grade 10.

"Students are now preparing to choose their preferred pathways for Grade 10. Schools must be equipped in good time to handle this process efficiently and avoid unnecessary delays or frustrations for school heads and administrators," Otieno stated.

At the same time, parents have raised concerns over rising costs of school essentials such as textbooks and uniforms, urging the government to step in and provide relief.

Additionally, parents are requesting schools to allow students who haven't cleared their term fees to remain in class, as they appeal for more time to raise the necessary funds.