More senior officials in President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza government have now come out to contradict John Mbadi, following public backlash over his recent remarks suggesting the government was planning to reduce capitation funds to schools.
Mbadi had claimed that this would lead to an increase in school fees, a statement that caused concern among parents and education stakeholders across the country.
However, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has strongly denied these claims, saying the government has no such intention.
Ogamba, while addressing the media, made it clear that no official in the government has made or supported any proposal to cut capitation to secondary schools.
He explained that the government is fully aware of the challenges parents face when it comes to educating their children, especially in these tough economic times.
Reducing education funding, he said, would only worsen the situation and go against the government’s own commitment to making education affordable and accessible.
Although Ogamba admitted that the country is facing serious economic struggles, he argued that this is not a reason to burden parents further.
He described the current financial situation as “difficult mathematics,” where funding the budget requires careful balancing. He called for unity and understanding, noting that everyone, including leaders and citizens, must work together to solve the economic problems Kenya is facing.
According to him, pointing fingers at the executive is not helpful, and Members of Parliament should instead focus on coming up with practical solutions that can help the country move forward.
Ogamba further assured Kenyans that the government is determined to protect the education sector. He said that rather than cutting funds, the government will look for other ways to raise the money needed for schools.
He mentioned that funds could be sourced from other sectors or unnecessary expenditures could be reduced to make sure schools remain funded.
His remarks were meant to calm fears that school fees might go up, especially for parents already struggling with the high cost of living.
The recent debate over school funding has caused tension in public discussions, especially with learners preparing to return to school.
Ogamba’s response is likely aimed at preventing panic and reassuring parents that education remains a top priority. The government, he said, is not turning its back on learners and will continue to invest in their future, even in the face of tough economic times.
