The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Chairman, Omboko Milemba, has welcomed the government’s proposed allocation of Ksh784.5 billion to the Education sector in the 2026/27 national budget.
Milemba, who is also the Emuhaya Member of Parliament (MP) praised the substantial investment directed towards teachers’ salaries, basic education, higher learning institutions, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, school feeding programmes, and other key areas within the education sector.
He noted that the funding will significantly strengthen learning institutions, improve teacher welfare, and enhance access to quality education across the country.
The Chairman particularly commended the allocation of Ksh4.9 billion earmarked for the confirmation of some 20,000 JSS intern teachers to permanent and pensionable terms.
He noted that the move will address staffing challenges in schools, while improving job security for thousands of educators across the country.
According to the lawmaker, the continued support for Junior School capitation demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of educational reforms and improving learning conditions for students.
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Milemba observed that adequate financing of education remains critical in achieving equitable access to learning opportunities and ensuring that learners from all backgrounds receive quality education.
He noted that investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions will enhance skills development among young people and equip them with practical competencies needed in the labour market, thereby contributing to national economic growth.
The unionist further stated that support for school feeding programmes will help improve school attendance and retention, particularly among learners from vulnerable communities who depend on such programmes for nutrition and concentration in class.
While welcoming the budgetary allocation, Milemba emphasized the need for the timely disbursement of funds to educational institutions to prevent disruptions in learning and school operations.
He also called on the government to ensure adequate staffing in schools, arguing that increased funding should be accompanied by the recruitment and deployment of sufficient teachers to meet growing enrolment demands.
He urged education stakeholders to prioritize accountability and transparency in the utilization of public resources to guarantee that funds allocated to the sector achieve their intended objectives.
The MP maintained that proper management of education resources would improve infrastructure development, enhance teaching and learning, and ultimately raise academic performance across the country.
Milemba expressed optimism that the increased funding will support the government’s efforts to transform the education sector and create a conducive environment for both learners and teachers.
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He said that sustained investment in education remains one of the most effective ways of promoting social and economic development.
He added that every learner deserves access to quality education regardless of their socio-economic background.
Milemba called upon all stakeholders, including the government, school administrators, teachers, parents, and development partners, to work together in ensuring that the allocated resources translate into meaningful improvements within the education sector.
He concluded by expressing confidence that if properly implemented, the proposed education budget will strengthen institutions, improve learning outcomes, and contribute significantly to the country’s long-term development goals.
By Juma Ndigo
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