Treasury releases Sh109.9 billion for basic education
JANE NGUGI- KNA
The Treasury has disbursed Sh109.9 billion as capitation for basic education ahead of schools reopening next year.
The funds have been allocated across the three levels of basic education, with secondary schools receiving the largest share of Sh65.2 billion for free day secondary education.
Junior Secondary Education has been allocated Sh35.3 billion, while Sh9.36 billion will go towards free primary education, according to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migosi Ogamba.
Speaking at Moi Secondary School in Nakuru Town West Sub-County, the Cabinet Secretary stated that releasing the capitation funds before the new school term begins would ensure a smooth resumption of school activities.
He further announced that the government had disbursed Sh18 billion for the construction of various education infrastructure projects across the country.
At the same time, Ogamba highlighted that the government is retooling the education system to align it with current and future industrial needs.
He emphasized that new skill sets required for the future workforce could be identified through research and analysis of emerging trends.
The Cabinet Secretary added that the government is implementing reforms at all education levels to address market demands and enhance the global competitiveness of Kenyan learners.
Stressing the inevitability of these reforms, Ogamba explained that the education sector Kenya needs is one that fosters holistic growth among learners.
He noted that a modernized education system is essential for enabling Kenya to compete favorably with other countries.
“This is why the government is heavily investing in education infrastructure, including classrooms, laboratories, dormitories, libraries, electricity, and internet connectivity.
"We aim to provide education that is impactful and ensures relevance for the professionals we produce in the global labor market. Only then can we meet international standards,” he added.
The Cabinet Secretary revealed that the government is sponsoring three bills to streamline the education sector, promote innovation, foster skills development, encourage research, and enhance the quality of learning.
The proposed legislation includes: the Universities Bill, 2024, aimed at improving governance in higher education institutions, the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Bill, 2024, designed to strengthen TVET institutions, the Science and Innovation Bill, 2024, crafted to promote research and innovation.
“These bills are part of our strategy to align Kenya’s education system with the demands of the 21st century, focusing on skills development, equity, and global competitiveness,” Ogamba said.
The draft Universities Bill, 2024 seeks to tighten accreditation procedures for courses and institutions to address issues with rogue universities. The bill categorizes universities into six types, ending the current arrangement where institutions offer a mix of programs.