The Reason why School were Forced To close Earlier Than Scheduled.
In a concerning development, schools across Kenya have been forced to close earlier than scheduled, sparking worries about the future of the education system. The Ministry of Education’s academic calendar originally outlined that the third term would end on October 27, granting students a generous 10-week break. However, a recent investigation by The Star has uncovered that many schools in Nairobi and beyond have already shuttered, while others are preparing to do so in the days to come.
The underlying cause of this crisis can be attributed to the government’s failure to disburse the much-needed capitation funds, which serve as a vital financial support system for educational institutions. These funds are intended to cover various expenses, including provisions for students throughout the academic year. Shockingly, it has come to light that only 24 percent of the total funds have been disbursed by the government, leaving a substantial 76 percent unpaid.
This dire situation has placed an immense strain on the schools, with many struggling to make ends meet. Principals from affected institutions are sounding the alarm about the impending collapse of the education sector. Some schools are unable to provide sufficient meals for their students, and suppliers are hesitant to deliver essential food materials due to the significant debts owed to them.
One anonymous school principal lamented the dire circumstances, stating, “We are really struggling…there is no money, and that is why we have been forced to close early.” The burden of debt, which amounts to as much as Sh31 million, has driven suppliers away from these institutions.
Parents are also feeling the impact of this crisis, as they collectively owe a total of Sh10 million in unpaid school fees. The combination of unpaid fees and insufficient government funds has created a dire financial situation for many schools.
Under the free primary education and free day secondary education policies, the government is responsible for providing funds to cover educational expenses. The government allocates Sh1,420 and Sh22,244 for each learner as capitation funds for primary and secondary schools, respectively, annually. These funds are supposed to be disbursed termly using a specific formula.
Also Read: Ministry Releases New Circular With Early School Closing Dates
Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu had previously announced the government’s plan to release Sh28 billion to primary and secondary schools by May 30, 2023. However, the failure to disburse these funds has pushed schools into a financial crisis, leading to early closures and profound uncertainty within the education system.
The timing of this closure is particularly troubling as Form Four candidates are currently preparing for their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams. The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) had previously stated that KCSE rehearsals would begin on October 19, with the exams scheduled for October 23.
This financial crisis within the education system underscores the challenges faced by schools, students, and parents. It underscores the need for immediate government intervention to safeguard the future of education in Kenya and ensure that students receive the quality education they deserve. The question now is whether the government will take prompt action to address these financial challenges and prevent further disruptions to the academic calendar.
The Reason why School were Forced To close Earlier Than Scheduled.
