Secondary school principals in Kenya have blamed poor performance in KCSE for government delays and partial release of capitation funds.
According to KESSHA, financial constraints in schools have directly led to the rise in E grades.
E Grades Increasing Due to Funding Gaps
KESSHA data shows a trend of fluctuating but increasing E grades:
- 2020: 28,046
- 2021: 46,151
- 2022: 30,822
- 2023: 48,174
- 2024: 48,333
Government capitation funds have been reducing and schools are owed Ksh 54.2 billion since 2019. A third of this is for 2024 alone.
KESSHA Chairperson Willy Kuria warns that E grades have gone up 72% between 2022 and 2025 meaning there is a clear link between inadequate funding and decline in performance.
“When schools lack resources, performance is affected, as seen in the rise in E grades over the years,”Kuria said in a report.
Impact of Budget Cuts on Education Quality
1. Teacher Retention Challenges
Many schools rely on BOM teachers who are now leaving due to poor pay. With fewer experienced teachers, students are struggling to get quality instructions, further widening academic gaps.
2. Reduced Student Support Services
Budget cuts have led to reduction in counseling and mental health programs. This has affected students’ emotional well-being, leading to stress and anxiety which in turn affects performance.
“Schools lack learning support programs for struggling students. Limited access to counselors is making matters worse,” the report states.
3. Widening Education Inequality
The funding crisis has hit day secondary schools the most, since they depend entirely on government capitation. This has worsened inequality, leaving students in underfunded schools with fewer resources and learning opportunities.
4. Reduced Curriculum Options
Due to financial challenges, many schools are reducing the number of subjects they offer. This limits career choicesfor learners and forces schools to be conservative in their subject offerings.
Government Must Act Fast
KESSHA is urging the government to prioritize school funding to address these challenges. The association warns that if no immediate action is taken, performance gaps will widen, and education inequality in Kenya will worsen.
“Limited funding makes it hard for schools to provide basic facilities and learning materials, which directly affects student performance,” the report states.
As Kenya goes for education reforms, the government must address these funding gaps so that students get quality education and equal opportunities for academic success.