Schools Face Capitation Crisis Amid Funding Disputes and Fraud Revelations

Concerns are escalating over a significant school capitation crisis in Kenya, with fears that government funding remains inadequate despite repeated assurances. A dispute has emerged within the education sector regarding the allocation of funds to schools, prompting school heads and teachers to question if the released capitation covers Grade 10 learners. This funding issue contributes to challenges in the transition from the 8-4-4 system to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBE), which is facing problems due to insufficient resources. Amidst this, a recent school data audit has uncovered widespread fraud involving thousands of "ghost learners" in "ghost schools". The crisis extends to the TVET sector, where a standoff over training costs has occurred between tutors and the government. These issues are compounded by a lack of infrastructure and equipment in public schools, leading to a widening gap in education that is causing despair among parents.