Ruto Orders Review of School Capitation Rates

 Schools could receive higher government funding after President William Ruto ordered a fresh review of the capitation rates paid for learners.

The review is expected to examine whether the current allocations are still sufficient to meet the cost of running public schools, following major changes in education since the last review.

Current Rates Could Be Increased

Ruto said the government currently allocates KSh22,000 per learner for secondary education, KSh14,000 for Junior Secondary School and KSh2,300 for primary education.

He directed the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders, including the Teachers Service Commission, to consider increasing the amounts so schools can have adequate resources for teaching and learning.

The President made the announcement on Monday, October 5, during the World Teachers’ Day celebrations at Kasarani.

The review is expected to begin after the government completes the tertiary education placement and funding process.

Schools Face Rising Costs

The planned review comes as school managers continue to face increasing costs associated with learning materials, maintenance, utilities and other daily operations.

Concerns over inadequate school funding have also been raised previously, with secondary school heads reporting that actual disbursements have fallen below approved capitation rates.

Ruto said the figures currently being used had been set years ago and should be reconsidered in light of changes within the education sector.

The government is therefore expected to assess the resources required to provide education before determining the new rates.

KSh18.5 Billion Already Released

The proposed changes come shortly after the government released KSh18.5 billion in Term Three capitation for public basic education institutions.

According to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, KSh1.4 billion was allocated to Free Primary Education, KSh6.14 billion to Free Day Junior School Education and KSh10.96 billion to Free Day Secondary Education.

School heads have been directed to ensure the money is used responsibly and exclusively for the benefit of learners.

They have also been warned against imposing unauthorised charges on parents as the government considers a broader review of school financing.