By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, December 2 2025 - The government has released Sh44.2 billion in capitation funds for Term I of the 2026 academic year, offering reassurance to parents and school administrators ahead of the nationwide reopening of schools on Monday.
In a statement issued on Friday, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba said the funding had been disbursed in time to support learning activities across public primary, junior and day secondary schools as the new school year begins. The early release, he noted, is intended to prevent disruptions and ensure institutions are adequately prepared to receive learners.
According to the Ministry of Education, a total of Sh44,245,066,500.85 has been allocated across the three levels of basic education. Free Primary Education received Sh3.7 billion, Free Day Junior School Education was allocated Sh14.5 billion, while the largest share—Sh26.08 billion—went to Free Day Secondary Education.
Ogamba said all public basic education institutions are expected to reopen on January 5, with ministry field officers deployed across the country to monitor compliance with the academic calendar and the proper use of public funds. He added that Grade 10 learners transitioning under the new system will report to their respective senior schools from January 12, 2026.
The CS used the announcement to reiterate the government’s position on school fees, emphasising that no increases have been approved. He confirmed that capitation for senior schools remains at Sh22,244 per learner annually, a rate meant to fully cover tuition costs in day schools.
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“School heads are reminded that they are not permitted to impose unauthorised levies on parents,” Ogamba said, warning that the ministry will take firm administrative and disciplinary action against any verified cases of illegal charges or misappropriation of funds.
The release of the funds comes amid heightened public scrutiny of education financing, following recent claims and counterclaims over possible fee increases. The ministry has consistently maintained that basic education remains free and compulsory, as provided for under Article 53 of the Constitution.
Ogamba reaffirmed that commitment, saying the timely disbursement of capitation reflects the government’s obligation to protect every child’s right to education. He urged parents to work closely with schools and report any irregularities to education offices to allow for swift intervention.
