Parents and school administrators can breathe a sigh of relief as the government releases capitation funds just days before schools reopen.
The Ministry of Education disbursed Ksh 44,245,066,500.85 to public basic education institutions across the country for Term One, 2026.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba announced the release, ensuring schools have the resources they need when learners report back on January 5, 2026.
Free Day Secondary Education received the lion's share at Ksh 26,082,798,334.75.
Free Day Junior School Education got Ksh 14,459,193,520.00, while Free Primary Education was allocated Ksh 3,703,074,646.10.
The funding comes as Grade 10 learners prepare to join Senior Schools for the first time, with their reporting date set for January 12, 2026.
"The Government affirms its commitment to fulfil its duty to learners and educational institutions, in line with Article 53 of the Constitution that entitles every child to free and compulsory basic education," CS Ogamba stated.
The Ministry clarified that fees for senior schools remain unchanged, with the government maintaining capitation at Ksh 22,244 per learner annually.
School administrators have been cautioned to use funds responsibly and refrain from levying unauthorized fees on parents.
"School heads and principals are directed to ensure prudent use of these public resources entrusted to their care for the benefit of learners, and to desist from imposing any extra levies or fees," the CS emphasized.
Any verified cases of resource misappropriation or unauthorized fee collection will face firm action from the Ministry.
The timely release ensures smooth operations as millions of Kenyan children return to class this week.
