Nairobi, Kenya – The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has issued a stern warning that schools may shut down before mid-term if the government fails to release third-term capitation funds by 1 September.

Union Ultimatum

KUPPET chairperson Omboko Milemba said institutions are already grappling with acute shortages of textbooks, teaching aids, and basic supplies due to delayed disbursements. “We cannot continue running schools without money. If the funds do not arrive soon, we will ask principals to close schools,” he declared.

Some schools have already shortened terms or sent students home early. The union is also pressing for the per-student allocation to be restored to Ksh22,200, up from the current Ksh16,900, arguing that the cut undermines quality education.

Government Response

Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi recently assured head teachers that Ksh23 billion would be released, alongside additional resources for the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB). He urged patience, saying the government is still mobilising resources.

KUPPET, however, insists that the funds must be disbursed immediately to avert a nationwide school shutdown. The union has rejected the idea of teachers sustaining operations on credit or personal contributions, calling instead for predictable funding cycles.

Implications for Learners

The looming standoff threatens to disrupt learning across the country at a critical moment, with students preparing for national examinations. Education stakeholders have appealed for dialogue, warning that a funding crisis could derail the academic calendar and deepen inequalities in access to education.