CoG calls on Treasury to prioritize school capitation funding
Kericho Governor Erick Mutai, who chairs the Council of Governors’ Education Committee, emphasized the need to place education at the forefront during budget planning.
Governors are urging the National Treasury to expedite the release of capitation funds to schools to ensure uninterrupted learning across the country.
Kericho Governor Erick Mutai, who chairs the Council of Governors’ Education Committee, emphasized the need to place education at the forefront during budget planning.
Addressing attendees at a Thanksgiving ceremony held at Kipsigis Girls Secondary School where Head of Public Service and Cabinet Secretary Felix Koskei was the chief guest Mutai expressed concern over the delays in funding, noting the strain it places on school operations.
"Capitation funds should be among the National Treasury’s top priorities. Schools cannot function properly when their funding is delayed. Education must take precedence over other ministries when allocating resources," Dr. Mutai asserted.
He further appealed to the government to boost financial support for universities, highlighting the need to strengthen research and innovation.
According to Mutai, adequate investment in higher education is key to driving the country’s progress.
"Our universities risk falling behind in research without the necessary funding. We must equip them to innovate and spearhead knowledge advancement," he emphasized.
Kericho Woman Representative Beatrice Kemei, who was also present at the event, urged the government to promptly reinstate the budget allocation for national examination registration and invigilation.
She noted that scrapping this funding has transferred the financial responsibility to parents, many of whom are struggling to meet the added expenses.
"It’s unjust to place the weight of examination fees on parents," Kemei said.
"The government must urgently restore the budget for registration and invigilation to guarantee that all children, regardless of their circumstances, can access national exams equally."
She also called on the Ministry of Education to maintain a steady and adequate supply of sanitary towels to girls in schools, emphasizing the importance of dignity and uninterrupted learning for female students.
"We urge the Ministry of Education to ensure that sanitary towels are distributed regularly and in sufficient quantities to our girls. This basic necessity plays a crucial role in maintaining both attendance and dignity," Kemei emphasized.
