JSS Crisis Deepens as Treasury Slashes Education Budget by Sh15.4 Billion
Learners are facing a crisis as the National Treasury has slashed funds for Junior Secondary School (JSS) and school feeding programs.
Lawmakers, including those in the education committee chaired by Tinderet MP Julius Melly, expressed shock at the Treasury’s reduction of capitation to JSS by Sh15.4 billion, affecting about one million learners.
Furthermore, the entire budget of Sh4.9 billion allocated for the school feeding program has been eliminated, endangering the lives of 4.5 million learners who rely on school meals to stay in school.
The budget cut for JSS exacerbates the challenges faced by a sector already paralyzed by an ongoing teachers’ strike.
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Schools reopened after the Easter holiday amidst demonstrations by Junior Secondary teachers protesting the Teachers Service Commission’s refusal to employ them on permanent terms.
The intern teachers, led by John Melvin, marched to the TSC headquarters, vowing to continue weekly protests until their demands are met.
They demand government allocation of funds to employ all intern JSS teachers permanently starting June 2024, and compensation for past services under illegal internship contracts.
Additionally, they highlighted the plight of 12,672 special needs learners whose Sh453 million allocation was not provided for, jeopardizing their boarding fees.
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Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang emphasized the risk to children’s right to education due to budget cuts, urging the restoration of funding to maintain equity in education.
He also regretted underfunding in various education areas in the 2024/2025 financial year, including Free Primary Education, Free Junior Secondary education, Free Day Secondary education, and examination invigilation.
PS Kipsang highlighted funding gaps across multiple sectors, stressing the need for adequate allocation to ensure quality education and examination administration.
JSS Crisis Deepens as Treasury Slashes Education Budget by Sh15.4 Billion
