Schools Risk Immediate Closure .
Schools Risk Immediate Closure . Schools Risk Immediate Closure: A Growing Concern.
Several schools nationwide are sounding the alarm about possible closures due to the delayed release of capitation funds. These funds, expected earlier, are crucial for smooth operations as schools enter the second term.
Financial Strain on Schools
The delay in fund release is worsened by parents’ failure to pay fees on time, further straining the situation. School headteachers in both junior secondary and primary schools are struggling not only with daily operations but also with addressing teacher shortages. Additionally, they face challenges in meeting the requirements of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
Primary Schools’ Urgent Needs
Johnson Nzioka, Chairman of the Kenya Primary Schools Heads Association, warns that primary schools are in a precarious situation, relying solely on government funding. He emphasizes the urgent need for funds before the midterm break to stabilize operations.
Secondary Schools’ Financial Challenges
Similarly, Willy Kuria, Chairman of the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association, highlights the challenges faced by both day and boarding secondary schools. These schools are grappling with delayed government funding and insufficient fee payments from parents. The under-funding has left many schools receiving less than their allocated amounts for the first term.
Potential Solutions and Ongoing Talks
Despite the bleak outlook, Kuria mentions ongoing talks with the Ministry of Education, suggesting that funds may be released this week. However, the threat of school closures looms large as schools prepare for the midterm break, scheduled for June 26, based on the Ministry’s revised calendar.
Immediate Actions Required
If funds are not released in time, many schools might close earlier than expected for the midterm break. Alternatively, school heads might decide to close schools altogether. This situation has put additional pressure on parents, with many schools now demanding that parents pay at least 70 percent of the fee balance, despite schools having reopened only three weeks ago for the second term.
Conclusion
The risk of immediate closure of schools is a serious concern that needs urgent attention. The combined impact of delayed funding and unpaid fees threatens the stability of both primary and secondary schools. As schools and parents await the release of funds, the future remains uncertain, highlighting the need for prompt and effective action to prevent closures.
