The Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Prof. Julius Bitok, has provided clarification regarding a circular on the allocation of capitation to primary schools.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Bitok explained that the amounts listed in the circular are per learner, not per school, addressing concerns raised about the perceived low allocation for schools.
The circular, which pertains to the allocation of funds for the second term of 2026 and the second quarter of the 2025/2026 financial year, outlines a capitation allocation of KSh 95.25 per learner for learning materials (including books, stationery, and other educational supplies) and KSh 93.08 per learner for school operations, covering staff salaries, maintenance, utilities, and examination costs.
This clarification follows questions from various stakeholders regarding the adequacy of the capitation amounts being allocated to schools.
Prof. Bitok explained that the Ministry of Education (MoE) determines the allocation for each expenditure category, or “vote head,” based on the total capitation received from the National Treasury.
“The capitation funds are released in three phases corresponding to the school calendar terms,” Bitok stated, adding that the total capitation for primary schools is capped at KSh 1,400 per learner per year.
The funds are typically distributed by the National Treasury to the Ministry of Education on a termly basis, following a 50:30:20 distribution ratio.
The allocation of these funds is carefully calculated based on the estimated costs incurred for each learner, with detailed breakdowns of expenditure provided by the Ministry.
Upon receipt of the funds, the Ministry releases the money to schools along with an accompanying circular that outlines the specific allocation for each expenditure category.
“The figures referenced in the circular are based on established practices,” Prof. Bitok concluded.
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This clarification aims to address concerns over the adequacy of the capitation for primary schools, with the Ministry reiterating its commitment to supporting quality education and proper resource allocation for schools across the country.
By Obegi Malack
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