Treasury to Release Ksh23 Billion for Schools and Exams – CS Mbadi

Breakdown of the Funding

Speaking at the launch of the FY 2026/27 and Medium-Term Budget Preparation Process at KICC, CS Mbadi revealed that Ksh17 billion is earmarked for school capitation to support learners in primary and secondary schools, while Ksh5.9 billion will fund national examinations.

“We want to get more resources for capitation so that our children can go to school. Tomorrow, we are releasing Ksh17 billion plus Ksh5.9 billion for exams, making a total of Ksh23 billion,” Mbadi said.

HELB Disbursement Coming Soon

Mbadi also assured university and college students that the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funding is a priority. “We will also look for money for HELB this week so that our children can go to school,” he stated, signaling that the funds would be released before the September intake.

Addressing Past Funding Gaps

The CS acknowledged that the government had underfunded school capitation for over seven years. He disclosed that he had met with Education CS Julius Ogamba and Basic Education PS Julius Bitok to address funding gaps, following instructions from President William Ruto.

“We have not been giving enough money for capitation, and we are now reviewing the situation,” Mbadi added.

Education Ministry’s Reassurance

The announcement comes weeks after Education CS Ogamba dismissed reports of a reduction in school capitation. On July 28, Ogamba clarified that the government has not cut funding for learners. “Nobody has ever said that we are reducing the money from KSh22,000 to KSh16,000. Even my colleague never said anything close to that,” he noted.

Ogamba urged leaders to focus on sustainable solutions to support education rather than spreading misinformation. “The education sector deserves and will continue to receive the support it requires,” he said.