Government Disburses Ksh 22 Billion Capitation Funds for Term Two 2025 to Public Schools
In a major boost to the education sector, the Government of Kenya has released a staggering Ksh. 22,028,911,191.40 as capitation for learners in public basic education institutions ahead of Term 2, 2025. The Ministry of Education, under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary Julius Melly Ogamba, announced the disbursement on Monday, 20th May 2025, through an official press statement.
According to the breakdown, the funds are meant to ensure a seamless continuation of academic programs and to support the government’s commitment to free and compulsory basic education. The capitation is distributed as follows:
- Free Primary Education: Ksh. 1,370,196,684.55
- Free Day Junior School Education: Ksh. 8,900,424,491.35
- Free Day Junior School (Special Needs Education): Ksh. 118,417,921.35
- Free Day Secondary Education: Ksh. 11,639,872,094.40
This move brings the total capitation for Term 2 to over Ksh. 22 billion, signaling a firm commitment by the government to continue providing quality, inclusive, and equitable education to all Kenyan children.
A Step Toward Sustainable Education
The Ministry emphasized that the timely release of these funds is intended to facilitate the smooth running of school activities in the new term. With many schools already grappling with financial challenges, the disbursement is expected to ease operational burdens, including teaching resources, learning materials, and infrastructural support.
In line with Article 53(1)(b) of the Kenyan Constitution, which guarantees every child the right to free and compulsory basic education, the government reaffirmed its obligation to fund basic education sufficiently and transparently.
“This disbursement reaffirms our commitment to ensure that no child is left behind due to financial constraints,” read the statement signed by Cabinet Secretary Julius Melly Ogamba. “Every coin is to be accounted for and spent prudently for the benefit of the learner.”
Warning Against Misappropriation and Illegal Levies
Alongside the announcement, school heads and principals have been sternly warned against the misappropriation of the capitation funds or the imposition of unauthorized school levies. The Ministry stressed that any verified case of fund misuse or illegal charging of parents will be met with strict disciplinary measures.
“As a Ministry, we will deal firmly with any verified cases of misappropriation of resources and the imposition of unauthorized levies,” said CS Ogamba.
This comes in the wake of rising complaints from parents and guardians in various counties about unexplained levies imposed by school administrators, even in institutions under the Free Day School program. The Ministry has now placed these school leaders on notice, insisting that public resources must be used efficiently and transparently.
Focus on Junior School and Special Needs Education
Notably, the government has allocated a substantial amount — Ksh. 8.9 billion — for Free Day Junior School Education, a sector that has faced growing concerns over funding and infrastructure gaps following the rollout of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). The Ksh. 118 million allocated to Special Needs Education within Junior Schools also marks a positive step toward inclusive education.
Education analysts have welcomed this move, noting that it reflects a policy shift toward equitable distribution and accessibility in learning environments for all children, regardless of ability or background.
What’s Next?
Schools are expected to receive the funds immediately, and the Ministry will be monitoring their utilization closely through audits and field inspections. Parents and education stakeholders are also encouraged to remain vigilant and report any misuse of funds or irregularities to the relevant authorities.
The Ministry further called on Boards of Management (BoMs) and school administrators to collaborate closely in managing the funds effectively, ensuring that learning is not disrupted at any stage of the term due to financial inadequacies.
As Term 2 begins, the spotlight is now on schools to demonstrate financial discipline, accountability, and commitment to delivering quality education in line with national goals and constitutional mandates.
