The government, through the Ministry of Education, has released Kshs 136 million for the Term two Special Needs Education (SNE) grants to support learners with special needs and disabilities in public primary schools and integrated units across the country.
The funds, part of the 2024/2025 financial year allocations, aim to subsidise boarding expenses, pay braille transcribers, and provide gratuities for non-teaching staff.
In a statement signed by Abdi Moulid Abdi on behalf of the Principal Secretary, the Ministry emphasised that the grants are supplementary to Free Primary Education (FPE) funds and will directly benefit learners with disabilities.
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The statement states that deaf-blind learners will each receive Ksh 7,415.58, while those with other disabilities will receive Ksh 5,781.18 per term to cover boarding subsidies and support staff.
Additionally, the disbursement includes Ksh 733,452 for four months’ salaries of 14 braille transcribers serving visually impaired learners and Ksh 1,771,136.28 as service gratuity for eight non-teaching staff.
The ministry noted that the funds ensure that learners with disabilities receive the necessary support, including specialised personnel and essential services.
Strict guidelines were outlined to ensure transparency and proper use of the funds. Head teachers must provide certified assessment reports for each beneficiary, issue official receipts, and publicly display grant details on school notice boards.
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“At least 90 per cent of these funds must be used for specialised food rations, healthcare, and care services, with only 10% allocated to basic educational supplies for the neediest learners,” the directive stated.
Schools are also required to submit quarterly reports on enrolment, facilities, and staffing to the Directorate of Special Needs Education (DSNE) through county education offices.
“The Board of Management must ensure compliance with public finance laws, procurement regulations, and the Basic Education Act,” the Ministry added.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to supporting learners with disabilities, urging school administrators to adhere to accountability measures.
“We will monitor the utilisation of these funds closely to ensure they reach the intended beneficiaries,” the statement concluded.
By Cornelius Korir
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