Government Releases Sh18.5 Billion Capitation Funds as Schools Open for Third Term
The government has disbursed Sh18.5 billion to public basic education institutions ahead of the third term to support free education and national exams preparations.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 24, 2026
2 min read
The Ministry of Education has released Sh18.5 billion in capitation funds to public schools as the 2026 academic year enters its third and final term. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba confirmed the disbursement covers pre-primary, primary, junior, and senior schools for the nine-week term running from August 24 to October 23.
The allocation includes:
- Sh1.4 billion for Free Primary Education
- Sh6.14 billion for Free Day Junior School Education
- Sh10.96 billion for Free Day Secondary Education
CS Ogamba emphasized the government's commitment to providing free and compulsory basic education as guaranteed under Article 53(1)(b) of the Constitution. He urged school leaders to manage the funds responsibly to directly benefit learners and enhance educational delivery.
He also warned against unauthorized fees, stating that any institution misusing public funds or charging illegal levies will face strict action from the ministry.
This funding injection arrives as schools prepare for critical national assessments including KPSEA, KILEA, KJSEA, KPLEA, and KCSE, scheduled from October 26. Extra-curricular activities and school visits remain suspended during the term to focus on academics.
Earlier in the year, the government released Sh44.2 billion before the first term and Sh23.4 billion ahead of the second term, aiming to ensure uninterrupted learning throughout the academic year.
Additionally, diploma teacher training colleges resumed on August 24, with their term extending until November 6.
The Ministry has advised parents, teachers, and students to rely solely on official communications and disregard unauthorized notices circulating online.
