Kipsang Opposes Termination Of School Feeding Program.
Kipsang Opposes Termination Of School Feeding Program. Belio Kipsang Opposes Termination Of School Feeding Program.
Concerns Raised by Belio Kipsang
Education Principal Secretary, Dr. Belio Kipsang, expressed frustration at the proposed termination of the school feeding program by the Treasury.
During his appearance before the Education Committee on Tuesday, May 14, Kipsang criticized significant cuts amounting to KSh7 billion in the recurrent budget for the 2024/2025 Financial Year.
This reduction is expected to impact 4.5 million learners nationwide.
Budget Allocation and Impact
In the current Financial Year, the program was allocated KSh4.9 billion, but surprisingly, the Treasury decided to eliminate it entirely.
Kipsang emphasized the importance of the program, highlighting the challenges faced by children in certain parts of the country who go without meals.
He urged Treasury officials to reconsider their stance, emphasizing the program’s crucial role in ensuring every child has access to education.
Appeal to Reinstate the Program
Kipsang appealed to the National Assembly to reinstate the school feeding program, stressing the significance of the single meal and cup of porridge provided to students, many of whom come from homes with food insecurity.
He pointed out that over 2 million students are out of school, with food insecurity being one of the contributing factors.
Government’s Double Standard
The Julius Melly-led committee criticized the government’s decision, labeling it a double standard, especially considering the Kenya Kwanza government’s promise to increase funding for the program during the campaign period.
Conclusion
Belio Kipsang’s opposition to the termination of the school feeding program underscores its importance in ensuring access to education for all children. The government’s decision to cut funding contradicts its earlier promises, raising concerns about the welfare of millions of students across the country. Termination of this program will affect many students especially from poor families.
