Good News to all Schools as President Ruto Makes these Orders to Ministry of Education

The move follows concerns from school leaders that current allocations have failed to match rising costs of food, electricity, water and learning materials.

Ruto announced the plan during the 2026 World Teachers Day celebrations at Kasarani, Nairobi, noting that existing rates were last reviewed in 2015.

Senior schools currently receive about KSh22,244 per learner annually, junior schools around KSh14,000 and primary schools approximately KSh2,340.

The President said allocations should be reassessed upwards to give institutions enough resources to teach learners and maintain suitable learning environments.

He tasked the ministry to work with the Teachers Service Commission, teachers and other stakeholders after completion of the Tertiary Education, Placement and Funding Bill process.

The review comes as schools implement Competency Based Education, which has increased demand for classrooms, laboratories, teaching materials and trained teachers.

School heads have cited financial pressure, saying inadequate or delayed payments make it difficult to buy supplies and maintain facilities.

Ruto said the government released KSh86.1 billion to schools during 2026, including KSh44.2 billion in January, KSh23.4 billion in May and KSh18.5 billion in August.

The President has also promised timely termly releases, which school administrators say are essential for planning purchases and meeting routine expenses properly.

The debate coincides with a proposal by the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association to increase annual fees because operating costs have risen.

Parents have opposed higher contributions, warning that additional charges would burden households already struggling with the high cost of living.

They have urged the government to provide sufficient funding and ensure the money reaches schools on time.

A revised formula could ease pressure on institutions, but its impact will depend on the final allocations and consistent disbursement.

The ministry is expected to consult education agencies and assess the actual cost of teaching at each level before presenting recommendations.

No new rates have been announced, leaving school managers and families waiting to see whether the review will bring meaningful financial relief.