The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has voiced strong discontent over the government’s piecemeal release of capitation funds to schools. The Kilifi branch, led by Branch Executive Secretary Caleb Mogere, expresses concern about the financial distress this has caused in schools. The discrepancy between the allocated amounts in official circulars and the actual funds received has raised questions, leading to a call for transparency and urgency in releasing the remaining balance.
Quick Summary
- KUPPET, particularly the Kilifi branch, expresses frustration over the piecemeal release of capitation funds to schools by the government.
- Branch Executive Secretary Caleb Mogere highlights discrepancies between the allocated amounts in official circulars and the actual funds received.
- The observed financial distress in schools prompts a call for transparency and urgency in releasing the remaining 25 percent of term one capitation funds.
- Mogere emphasizes the collective responsibility of all education stakeholders for academic performance and addresses recent incidents of teacher harassment by parents.
- KUPPET commends the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) for supporting the call for the transfer of teachers from affected schools.
Discrepancies in Capitation Funds
The Kilifi branch of KUPPET, led by Caleb Mogere, raises concerns about the government’s approach to releasing capitation funds to schools. Mogere notes that the amount received is significantly lower than the figures outlined in the official circular. Specifically, under the operation account, the actual amount per learner in secondary school is reported as Ksh3,820, compared to the ministry’s stated Ksh6,551. Similarly, in the tuition account, schools only received Ksh663 per student against the ministry’s claim of Ksh1,203.
Call for Transparency and Urgency
The discrepancy between the allocated amounts and the actual funds received has led to financial distress in schools, prompting KUPPET to seek transparency and urgency in releasing the remaining 25 percent of term one capitation funds. Mogere urges government officials, including the Director General and Chair Education Committee, to follow up with the Cabinet Secretary to provide clarity on the delayed disbursement.
Collective Responsibility for Academic Performance
Addressing recent incidents of teacher harassment by parents over alleged poor exam performance, Mogere emphasizes the collective responsibility of all education stakeholders. He acknowledges teachers’ role in imparting knowledge but stresses that parents, the Board of Management (BoM), the Parents Association (PA), and students also play pivotal roles. Teachers are deemed professionals who must be respected, and any parental actions hindering their duties will be pursued through legal channels.
Commendation for TSC Support
KUPPET commends the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) for supporting the call to transfer teachers from affected schools where harassment incidents have occurred. The union vows to follow up to ensure that parents engaging in such actions face legal consequences.
Final Thoughts
The frustration expressed by KUPPET’s Kilifi branch highlights the challenges schools face due to the piecemeal release of capitation funds. The call for transparency and urgency reflects the union’s commitment to advocating for the financial well-being of schools. As the issue unfolds, collaboration between education stakeholders remains crucial in addressing discrepancies, promoting transparency, and creating a conducive learning environment for students and teachers alike.
