Why Over 3,000 Secondary Schools in Kenya Risk Closure

The Ministry of Education is engaging stakeholders in discussions to determine the fate of more than 3,000 secondary schools facing closure due to low enrollment.

Schools with low enrollment are likely to be affected amid concerns over inefficient use of public resources.

Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok clarified that no schools have been shut down yet, but confirmed that consultations are ongoing to review how best to utilise public resources in the education sector.

PS Bitok emphasised that the ministry is not rushing to close the institutions. Instead, he explained that discussions are being held with education stakeholders, including school boards and county education officers, to determine the most suitable course of action.

“At the moment, we have not closed any of these schools. However, we are consulting with stakeholders on the way forward. In fact, some may be converted into junior secondary schools,” Bitok said.

Capitation Funding Under Scrutiny

The debate arises amid growing criticism of the allocation of capitation funds. Reports indicate that some schools with very low student enrollment continue to receive funds that far exceed their needs, while others with larger populations are struggling with debts due to underfunding.

“There are schools with as few as five students and up to ten teachers. This is the kind of scenario we’re reviewing to determine the best course of action,” Bitok noted.

Education experts have argued that such disparities not only undermine efficient use of public funds but also raise questions about equity in the distribution of resources.

Also Read: Why Capitation for Secondary Schools Has Been Reduced- CS Mbadi

Despite concerns, the government insists that its free education policy remains intact. Bitok reassured parents and guardians that the government is committed to ensuring free primary and secondary education, acknowledging that delays in capitation disbursements have caused anxiety in schools.

“We want to reaffirm that free education is a reality. Although there are delays in funding, we are working to ensure everything runs smoothly,” he said.

School Boards Urged to Act Responsibly

The PS urged boards of management not to accumulate unnecessary debts while awaiting government disbursements. He noted that fiscal discipline within schools is essential as the government works on addressing funding delays and restructuring under-enrolled schools.

Also Read: Over 5,000 Secondary Schools Snubbed in Grade 10 Selection

Education stakeholders are expected to provide recommendations that could include mergers, conversion of some schools into junior secondary institutions, or the closure of those deemed unsustainable.

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