The government has disbursed over KSh44 billion in capitation funds to public basic education institutions ahead of the reopening of schools for the 2026 academic year. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba confirmed the release, assuring that schools will have the resources they need when learners report back on January 5, 2026.
In a press statement, Ogamba said all schools will resume learning on Monday in line with the national academic calendar. He directed education directors and field officers to oversee compliance and ensure smooth reopening across the country.
Ogamba revealed that the Ministry of Education had allocated kSh44,245,066,500.85 for Term One, covering Free Primary Education, Free Day Junior School Education and Free Day Secondary Education. Of this amount, Free Day Secondary Education received the largest share at kSh26,082,798,334.75, followed by Free Day Junior School Education at kSh14,459,193,520.00, while Free Primary Education was allocated kSh3,703,074,646.10.
Ogamba emphasized that basic education remains free and compulsory as guaranteed under Article 53 of the Constitution. He clarified that senior school fees will remain unchanged, with government capitation support continuing at Sh22,244 per learner annually.
Addressing senior school placement, the CS noted that the first phase of Grade 10 admissions was completed on December 29, 2025, with joining instructions issued online the following day. Learners and parents seeking reviews of the initial placements will be allowed to apply during a second window running from January 6 to 9, 2026, through their junior or senior schools. Grade 10 students are expected to report to their respective senior schools beginning January 12, 2026.
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Ogamba cautioned school administrators against imposing unauthorized levies or misusing public funds, warning that any confirmed cases of misappropriation would attract strict administrative action. “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,” he said.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fulfilling its duty to learners and institutions, noting that the funding demonstrates continued support for free and compulsory basic education. “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,” Ogamba stated.
By Philip Koech
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