President William Ruto has reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding education access despite widespread anxiety over recent budget cuts affecting public schools.
Speaking at a Sunday service at St. Martins Light Industries Anglican Church in Kariobangi, Nairobi, the President emphasized that education remains a national cornerstone that cannot be compromised under any circumstance.
“Education cannot be compromised. We cannot compromise access, quality, affordability, or relevance,” said Ruto, addressing a congregation concerned about the state of public education.
His assurance comes amid mounting concerns from teachers, parents, and school administrators following revelations by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi that the government has reduced capitation for secondary school students from KSh22,244 to KSh16,428—a funding gap of KSh5,816 per learner.
This shortfall has left many schools in financial disarray, unable to pay non-teaching staff, settle debts with suppliers, or maintain operations. Some institutions are reportedly considering sending students home due to lack of funds.
President Ruto, however, emphasized that his administration recognizes education as Kenya’s greatest investment.
“Our people are our most valuable resource. Investing in their education is investing in Kenya’s future,” he said.
Ruto also underlined his commitment to working with religious organizations to enhance access to quality and relevant education across the country.
National Parents Association Chair Silas Obuhatsa expressed concern that the funding cut has come at the worst time for parents still grappling with economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This news has shocked parents. Many are recovering from job losses and cannot afford to cover the gap. The government should be increasing, not cutting, funding,” said Obuhatsa.
He warned that rural children are most at risk, as their parents lack the resources to bridge the funding gap—potentially triggering a surge in school dropouts.
Meanwhile, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Education CS Julius Ogamba are under pressure to respond to these concerns as the third term begins with many schools reportedly struggling to stay open.
Stakeholders are calling on the government to urgently reconsider its budget allocations or risk derailing decades of progress made under the Free Primary Education (FPE) and Free Day Secondary Education (FDSE) programmes.
As the fiscal strain intensifies, the President’s reassurance has offered a glimmer of hope—but education leaders insist that bold, immediate action is needed to keep classrooms open and learning on track.
