CS Ogamba Clarifies 2023 Primary School Capitation Arears, TVET Funding, and Mobility Challenges
The Ministry of Education recently addressed critical concerns raised in Parliament about funding shortfalls, stalled projects, and operational inefficiencies in the education sector.
Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ogamba responded to inquiries on the 2023 delayed release of primary school capitation funds, the financial challenges facing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, and the lack of transport for sub-county education directors.
Hon. Basil Robert Ngui questioned the Ministry of Education regarding the delay in releasing over 22% of capitation funds to primary schools in 2023.
He highlighted the critical need for adequate and timely funding, especially during the examination period, and inquired whether sub-county directors of education would be provided with vehicles to enhance mobility and service delivery within sub-counties.
Responding to the inquiry, Cabinet Secretary Ogamba explained that capitation funds are distributed based on exchequer releases, which often fall short of the required amounts.
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He noted that this issue is not unique to 2023, as the government has never managed to release 100% of the capitation funds. Despite this, the Ministry strives to distribute the available resources equitably to ensure maximum accessibility to education nationwide.
Mobility Challenges for Sub-County Directors
Addressing the issue of transportation for sub-county directors, the CS acknowledged the mobility constraints but attributed them to budgetary limitations.
He mentioned that the Ministry procured vehicles for sub-counties in 2022/2023, which were distributed across the country.
However, the demand still exceeds supply. Plans are underway to request additional funds to ensure all sub-counties have access to vehicles, aiming to incrementally resolve this issue.
Support for TVET Institutions
Hon. Anthony Oluoch from Mathare Constituency sought clarification on the Ministry’s policies to ensure Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions receive adequate capitation to prevent their collapse.
He emphasized that Parliament allocates funds annually to support TVETs as a bridge for those unable to join universities.
In response, CS Ogamba assured the House that the issue of capitation delays for TVETs has been addressed. He stated that capitation for TVETs is now released concurrently with university funding, ensuring parity in resource distribution.
Hon. Bartoo Phylis Jepkemoi of Moiben Constituency raised concerns about the incomplete Moiben TVET, which has remained unfinished for over 15 years.
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The CS explained that incomplete TVET infrastructure is a widespread issue caused by insufficient funding. To address this, the Ministry has compiled a register of all incomplete TVET projects and their financial requirements.
These details will be presented to Parliament for resource allocation to complete these institutions and initiate new projects.
Summary Table: Key Issues and Responses
| Issue Raised | Raised By | Response by CS Ogamba |
|---|---|---|
| Capitation fund shortfalls for primary schools | Hon. Basil Robert Ngui | Funds are distributed equitably based on exchequer availability. |
| Transportation for sub-county directors | Hon. Basil Robert Ngui | Plans to procure more vehicles; budget constraints remain a challenge. |
| Non-remittance of capitation to TVETs | Hon. Anthony Oluoch | Issue resolved; capitation now released alongside university funds. |
| Completion of Moiben TVET | Hon. Bartoo Phylis Jepkemoi | Registry of incomplete TVETs created; Parliament to allocate funds. |
Conclusion
The Ministry acknowledged the persistent challenges in education funding and infrastructure but outlined ongoing measures to resolve them.
Budgetary constraints remain a significant hurdle, yet efforts to equitably allocate resources and improve mobility and infrastructure for education stakeholders continue to progress.
CS Ogamba Clarifies 2023 Primary School Capitation Arears, TVET Funding, and Mobility Challenges
