Post: KESSHA Advocates for Increased School Capitation Funds

Murang'a: The chairperson of the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA), Mr. Willy Kuria, has called for an upward review of the funds allocated to schools as capitation. Kuria, who spoke to KNA in Murang'a County, highlighted the diminishing value of the annual capitation per student in light of rising costs of school supplies.According to Kenya News Agency, Kuria pointed out that the current capitation of Sh. 22,000 per student per annum, which was established in 2017, is no longer sufficient due to escalating commodity prices. This financial strain has left many schools struggling with debts. Kuria, also the principal of Murang'a High School, explained that the capitation covers not only daily operational expenses but also development costs such as infrastructure construction and renovation, non-teaching staff salaries, and extracurricular activities.Kuria emphasized that the funds currently received are inadequate for school operations. He urged for a timely review of the capitation amount , stressing the importance of convening stakeholders to address the issue. The Ministry of Education, he noted, should lead this initiative to alleviate the financial challenges faced by secondary schools, which are impacting the learning environment.He further elaborated on the financial difficulties, warning that if not addressed urgently, the situation might lead to disruptions in learning. Delays in government capitation releases have resulted in substantial debt accumulation for schools. Last year, a Sh.7,000 deficit per student in government disbursements left many institutions with unpaid bills.Kuria mentioned that the absence of form one intake this year could exacerbate financial woes, as admissions typically help in offsetting some debts. Schools relying solely on capitation are reportedly unable to procure necessary learning materials. He urged the government to expedite capitation releases, noting that suppliers are hesitant to deliver due to outstanding debts.In response to these challenges , Kuria stated that schools are compelled to send students home to seek financial contributions from parents to keep the institutions operational. He expressed hope for the prompt release of funds, suggesting that 50 percent of the capitation would help schools navigate the first term without major disruptions.