Ruto Says No Threat to Education

President William Ruto has affirmed the government’s dedication to maintaining accessible education despite significant funding cuts impacting Kenya's public schools. 

The President's statement, delivered at St Martins Light Industries Anglican Church in Kariobangi, Nairobi, comes amidst growing concerns over the Treasury's ability to sustain the Free Primary Education and Free Day Secondary Education programmes. The reduced funding has sparked fears among parents and educators that schools may face significant disruptions, particularly in already disadvantaged communities. 

Recent disclosures indicate a shortfall, with senior secondary learners experiencing a reduction from Sh22,244 to Sh16,428 – a deficit of Sh5,340 per student. Primary school learners receive Sh1,420 annually, while junior secondary students are allocated Sh15,042. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi confirmed the reductions before the National Assembly Education Committee, attributing the decision to current fiscal constraints. 

The funding shortfall is already impacting schools, which reportedly struggle with unpaid supplier debts and salary arrears for non-teaching staff. Stakeholders are warning of potential mass dropouts and the possible undermining of Kenya's free basic education policy. Silas Obuhatsa, chair of the National Parents Association, has criticised the timing of the funding cuts, particularly given the ongoing economic struggles faced by many families since the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"This decision has shocked parents. Instead of reducing funding, the government should have increased it to reflect the current economic realities," Obuhatsa said, voicing concerns that rural learners may be disproportionately affected.

Despite the fiscal challenges, President Ruto insists that education remains a top priority. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki echoed this sentiment, characterising the transformation of Kenya’s education sector over the past two decades as “irreversible.” 

He highlighted the recent implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum as a significant step forward, intended to address previous implementation challenges.