Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-03-20 16:56:23
School heads, represented by the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), have issued a stern ultimatum to the Ministry of Education. They have demanded the immediate release of capitation funds within a 7-day deadline. Failure to disburse the funds as requested will result in the union advising school heads to shut down schools and send learners back home.
During a press briefing, union leaders expressed concern over the crippling effect of the delay in capitation funds on the education sector. The lack of funds has led to the suspension of crucial activities in schools such as laboratory practicals and sporting events. Additionally, teachers are vehemently opposing the proposed reduction of the money allocated to each student.
The government recently decreased the capitation from Ksh22,224 to around Ksh17,000, indicating a significant decrease in government funding for education. Omboko Milemba, the Chair of KUPPET, emphasized the urgency of the situation by stating, “We are giving the government seven days to disburse the funds; otherwise, we will instruct our teachers to close down schools and send students home until the funds are received.”
Furthermore, the union highlighted that the funds provided to schools only accounted for 30% of the required capitation. Akello Misori, the Secretary General of KUPPET, called upon President Ruto to intervene and prevent further damage to the education sector. The cancellation of the EduAfya Programme by the government has also had a negative impact on schools, prompting KUPPET to urge the government to reinvest the funds into schools, even if it falls outside the education programme.
The conflicts within the education ministry have been persisting, with a notable dispute between Junior Secondary School teachers and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). JSS teachers, who were working on an internship basis, threatened to strike until they were hired permanently with pension benefits. Eventually, the government succumbed to the pressure and announced the promotion of over 36,000 teachers.
In conclusion, the education sector in Kenya is facing significant challenges due to delays in disbursing capitation funds and other ongoing conflicts. It is crucial for the government to address these issues promptly to ensure the smooth operation of schools and the well-being of students and teachers.
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