The plan to raise fees by principals has been strongly opposed by National Parents Association president Nicholas Maiyo, who says parents are already under financial pressure.
However, he supported the need to increase capitation.
“We oppose any proposal to increase school fees. Principals should use the money received earlier and give an account of it,” said Mr. Maiyo.
According to fee recommendations from the Ministry of Education, students from national and extra-county schools in selected municipalities should be charged Sh45,000 this year, while students in extra-county institutions should be charged Sh35,000.
Magoha says that 20 billion shillings have been provided to schools before the new school year.
Last year, the cost reduction was done as part of an initiative to protect parents from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Students from national schools paid Sh53,554 per year, students from extra-county schools paid Sh40,535 and students from secondary schools with special needs paid Sh12,790.
Mr Indimuli said the current funding scheme, in which money is distributed to schools in four phases after the restructured school year, has hindered school management.
Mr. Indimuli also requested that the Ministry of Education establish a separate fund to support infrastructure improvements.
“Schools are unable to buy food items to pay suppliers, non-teaching staff and even to retain students. If we get this extra money, the headmaster will be able to run the schools more efficiently,” said Kessa president Kahi Indimuli.
The government keeps a significant portion of Sh22,244 per student [for payment] for obtaining textbooks and medical coverage of the students.
“Some Sh5,000 has been allocated for infrastructure development and the chiefs get very little money to run the school,” he explained.
Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha last week urged principals to demand things from parents.
“Let’s not be too hasty to ask parents not to bring these items,” he said. Addressing the principals, Julius Jawan, Principal Secretary, Basic Education, ruled out the possibility of fee and capitation hike unless it is subject to public participation.
PS requested that the Principal utilize the available resources and account for the capitation money and student fee.
“As you complain for more money, please make sure you are able to account for all the money in schools,” he said.
