Public primary school heads have been directed to uphold strict transparency measures following the release of capitation funds by the government, as part of renewed efforts to ensure accountability in the use of public education resources.
In a circular, Principal Secretary for Basic Education Julius Bitok instructed all institutions to immediately acknowledge receipt of the funds through the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS) and publicly display capitation details on school notice boards.
He emphasized that openness in financial management is mandatory, with all expenditures required to be discussed and approved by Boards of Management before implementation.
The directive came as the government confirmed the disbursement of capitation funds to public primary schools across the country.
According to Bitok, each learner has been allocated Ksh 95.25 under Account 1 and Ksh 93.08 under Account 2, with the funds already deposited into respective school accounts.
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He noted that the allocation is based on verified data from NEMIS to ensure accuracy and fairness in distribution.
Bitok explained that funds under Account 1 are designated for instructional materials, including exercise books, stationery, teachers’ guides and textbook maintenance.
Meanwhile, Account 2 will cater for operational needs such as wages for support staff, infrastructure repairs, utilities, co-curricular activities and assessment-related expenses.
He cautioned that the use of the funds must strictly adhere to the ministry’s established guidelines, unless special authorization is granted.
At the same time, the Principal Secretary warned school administrators against financial mismanagement, directing that any cases of overfunding be reported promptly for recovery, while underfunded institutions should notify education officials for necessary adjustments.
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County and Sub-County Directors of Education have been tasked with closely monitoring the utilization of the funds to ensure full compliance with ministry regulations.
The latest directive underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening accountability and efficiency in the management of public education funds, even as schools continue to depend heavily on capitation to support learning and day-to-day operations.
By Kimwele Mutuku
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