Education Ministry Sounds Alarm Over Ksh 111B Budget Gap

BY VIONA SIMIYU

The Ministry of Education has raised concern over a looming funding shortfall ahead of the 2026/2027 financial year, warning that a deficit of more than Ksh 111 billion could cripple key programmes across the country.Principal Secretary Julius Bitok said Basic Education requires approximately Ksh 246 billion to run effectively, but the proposed allocation stands at just Ksh 135 billion. He cautioned that the gap could lead to delays in learner capitation, stalled infrastructure projects, and challenges in implementing ongoing reforms.

“The current allocation does not match the growing demands within the sector,” Bitok noted, emphasizing the need for sustainable financing to support quality learning and improve school infrastructure.Kenya has continued to invest in flagship programmes such as Free Primary Education, Junior Secondary School, and Free Day Secondary Education. However, rising enrolment numbers and escalating operational costs have placed additional strain on available resources.The ministry is now appealing to the National Treasury and Parliament to review the proposed allocations. Lawmakers, led by Budget and Appropriations Committee Chair Samuel Atandi, have pledged to consider the ministry’s concerns as they deliberate on the budget estimates.

“We will weigh competing demands across sectors, but education remains a priority,” Atandi said.

Education stakeholders hope the final budget will address the funding challenges and safeguard programmes that support millions of learners nationwide. The ministry awaits the official budget announcement, which will determine whether the gap is reduced and whether schools receive the resources needed to provide a conducive learning environment.