Government reassures parents as budget shortfalls threaten Free Day Secondary Education programme.
Introduction
The Kenyan government has moved swiftly to dismiss rumours that it plans to abolish free primary and secondary education, following reports of severe underfunding in the sector. In a press statement issued on Saturday, 26th July 2025, the Ministry of Education reaffirmed its commitment to providing free and compulsory basic education, calling it a “constitutional right” for every child.
The clarification comes after a tense parliamentary session where officials revealed that funding for the Free Day Secondary Education (FDSE) programme had fallen below the approved rate of Ksh. 22,244 per student annually. With rising enrolment due to the government’s 100% transition policy, the budget shortfall has sparked fears of a potential collapse of the programme—a cornerstone of Kenya’s education system since its introduction in 2008.
What Sparked the Controversy?
The debate over education funding erupted after Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba and Treasury CS John Mbadi appeared before the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Education on 24th July. During the session, they disclosed that despite increasing student numbers, the National Assembly had not allocated sufficient funds to meet the per-learner capitation rate.
This revelation led to sensational media reports suggesting that the government was considering ending free secondary education—a claim the Ministry has now firmly denied.
Government’s Reassurance
In its statement, the Ministry of Education emphasised that free basic education is enshrined in Article 53 of Kenya’s Constitution and cannot be revoked. “The Government has neither the intention nor the power to abrogate this sacrosanct right,” CS Ogamba stated.
To address the funding gap, the Ministry and the National Treasury pledged to lobby Parliament for additional resources. Officials acknowledged the financial strain but insisted that the programme would continue, even as they seek long-term solutions to stabilise funding.
Why Is Funding Falling Short?
Experts point to several factors behind the crisis:
- Rising Enrolment: The 100% transition policy, which ensures all primary school graduates join secondary education, has dramatically increased student numbers—but funding hasn’t kept pace.
- Inflation & Rising Costs: Economic pressures have eroded the value of the Ksh. 22,244 capitation, leaving schools struggling to cover operational expenses.
- Budget Constraints: Competing priorities, including debt repayment and infrastructure projects, have limited allocations to education.
Dr. Jane Muthoni, an education economist, warns that without urgent intervention, schools may be forced to reintroduce informal fees—defeating the purpose of free education. “The gap between allocated funds and actual needs is unsustainable,” she told the k47 digital news.
Parents & Schools React
The uncertainty has left parents anxious. “If free education is scrapped, many of us will have to pull our children out of school,” said Peter Omondi, a father of three in Nairobi.
Principals, meanwhile, report delayed disbursements and insufficient funds for textbooks, laboratories, and staff. “We’re operating on a shoestring budget,” said one headteacher who requested anonymity.
Historical Context
Kenya’s free primary education policy was launched in 2003, followed by FDSE in 2008. Both programmes have significantly boosted enrolment, but chronic underfunding has plagued their implementation. Past audits reveal cases of mismanagement, with some funds diverted or misused—a problem the government says it’s addressing through stricter oversight.
What Next?
The Ministry says it will intensify engagement with MPs to secure higher allocations in the upcoming budget. However, with Kenya’s fiscal space tightening, analysts suggest alternative solutions, such as:
- Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging private investment in education infrastructure.
- Cost-Sharing Models: Allowing minimal parental contributions for non-core expenses.
- Donor Funding: Seeking international support to bridge gaps.
Conclusion
While the government insists free education remains non-negotiable, the funding crisis highlights systemic challenges in sustaining the policy. For now, officials urge calm, promising no child will be denied schooling. But without concrete financial remedies, Kenya’s dream of equitable education for all could face its toughest test yet.
Key Takeaways:
- Kenya denies plans to scrap free secondary education despite budget shortfalls.
- Funding per student has dropped below the approved Ksh. 22,244 due to underfunding and rising enrolment.
- Ministry vows to lobby Parliament for more resources, citing constitutional obligations.
- Parents and schools fear a return to costly education if the crisis persists.
