Stakeholders in the education sector are calling on the government to expedite the release of capitation funds to schools, warning of a worsening crisis that threatens to disrupt learning across the country.
Church Leaders Sound Alarm Over Delayed Funds
Bishop Isaiah Obuya of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Nambale Diocese has issued a passionate appeal to the government, urging immediate action to alleviate the financial strain crippling schools.
Speaking at Elwakari Parish in Namaindi Archdeaconary, Bishop Obuya emphasized that while schools are public, many are sponsored by churches, which are now struggling to sustain them.
“It is very tough for schools right now. If the government does not act swiftly, the situation will spiral out of control,” he warned.
The Nambale Diocese alone sponsors 13 schools in Namaindi Archdeaconary, all of which are grappling with severe financial constraints.
Suppliers are threatening legal action over unpaid debts, while schools struggle to feed students and pay essential service providers. Workers, many of whom support families, have gone unpaid for months.
TSC Transfer Disputes Add to Tensions
Bishop Obuya also raised concerns over the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), accusing it of sidelining church sponsors in key decisions. He cited the recent transfer of Mr. Tom Amadi, the principal of Nambale Boys High School, which was effected without consultation.
“Transfers are necessary, but sponsors should be consulted, especially when changes involve schools we support,” he said.
Under Amadi’s leadership, Nambale Boys produced two A grades in the 2024 KCSE exams—the only such achievement in Busia County. The abrupt transfer has sparked frustration among stakeholders who fear instability in school performance.
Schools Forced to Cut Programs as Crisis Bites
The financial strain is equally dire in Mumias, where St. Peter’s Boys High School is preparing for the 2026 Grade 10 intake under the new curriculum.
Chief Principal Mr. Chrispinus Owino confirmed that despite positioning the institution as a STEM-focused school, delayed capitation has hampered operations.
“We are committed to offering 60 per cent STEM pathways, but without funds, even basic operations are at risk,” Owino said.
Principal St. Peters Mumias Boys High School
He also noted that the government’s directive against withholding certificates has led to lax fee payments by parents, worsening the financial burden on schools.
At St. Theresa’s Bumini, the Principal Mrs. Dorice Akinyi Onyango revealed that sending students home for fees is no longer viable, as many come from financially strained families.
“Some learners stay home for weeks, disrupting their education. We are forced to accommodate them despite having no funds,” she lamented.
A Plea for Urgent Intervention
With schools resorting to drastic cost-cutting measures, education stakeholders are pleading with the government to release pending funds immediately to avert a full-blown crisis.
“We will continue supporting our schools, but we need the government to fulfill its obligations,” Bishop Obuya affirmed.
As the standoff persists, the future of thousands of learners hangs in the balance.
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Why This Matters:
– Over 13 church-sponsored schools in Busia are struggling due to unpaid suppliers and staff.
– STEM education ambitions at institutions like St. Peter’s Mumias are at risk.
– Student welfare is deteriorating as schools lack funds for meals and essential services.
What’s Next?
– Will the government release funds before the situation worsens?
– How will TSC address concerns over unilateral teacher transfers?
Senior Principal St. Teresa’ Bumini Secondary.
