The Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) is actively urging the Ministry of Education to consider a substantial increase in capitation per learner, addressing the growing cost of living and financial strains on parents and schools. Secretary General Collins Oyuu, speaking during Knut’s National Executive Council meeting, emphasized the urgent need for changes in the current allocation system, stressing the necessity of releasing funds before the 2024 school reopening.
Oyuu voiced concerns about the current allocations, deeming them insufficient in the face of escalating costs for teaching tools, learning materials, and general living expenses. Knut’s proposals suggest a significant increase from the current allocation of Sh1,170 per pupil to at least Sh5,000 annually for each pre-primary learner. Similarly, primary pupils, currently receiving Sh2,237 per child, should see their stipend elevated to Sh4,000.
The union argues for an increase in the current government allocations of Sh1,420 per child at the primary school level and Sh15,544 to junior secondary school students. It proposes a rise to a minimum of Sh22,000 to accommodate the escalating demands. Additionally, regarding financial difficulties faced by secondary school pupils, the union suggests enhancing allocations for these students who currently receive only Sh22,244.
Advocating for a capitation increase, Knut proposes raising the amount to Sh35,000 for all learners with Special Needs and Disabilities at the primary school level. Furthermore, he suggests an elevation of this funding in secondary schools, proposing it be set at Sh60,000. Oyuu emphasizes not just financial support but also technological advancements in teaching tools, highlighting their paramount importance, especially for Special Needs educators.
Beyond capitation adjustments, Oyuu extends his proposals, advocating for the National Government’s development of a comprehensive Education Management Information System (Nemis). Believing in this system’s efficacy, specifically its potential to ensure timely, accurate, and reliable delivery of education data and information, he underscores its role in supporting various sectors such as planning, budgeting, funding, auditing, and overall sector management.
Oyuu expresses concerns over the delayed or fragmented allocation of funds for Free Primary Education and Free Day Secondary Education, attributing it to a lack of financial management training among institutional heads. Moreover, he issues an admonition that inconsistent or inadequate funding could potentially disrupt the implementation of the new Competency Based Curriculum.