President William Ruto has defended his government’s handling of education funding amid growing concerns from parents, teachers, and school heads over delayed capitation.

Speaking on Thursday during a public event in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, the president said the government had already released a significant amount of money to schools ahead of the new academic year. 

According to Ruto, KSh44 billion was sent to learning institutions before schools reopened earlier this week.

He explained that the amount represents half of the total capitation allocation for the year and was shared among primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary schools. The move, he said, was meant to ensure schools begin the term smoothly without disrupting learning.

Ruto noted that his administration had made deliberate efforts to prioritise education despite budget pressure facing the country. 

He pointed out that previous governments often delayed school funding, making it difficult for headteachers to manage operations during the opening weeks of term.

“We have shown commitment by releasing funds before learners returned to school,” the president said, adding that the remaining balance would be paid within the next two terms.

On senior secondary education, Ruto assured parents that the full capitation of about KSh22,000 per learner per year would be released on time. 

He said the government was determined to avoid interruptions that could affect learning, examinations, or school programmes.

The president also highlighted additional investments in the sector, including the recruitment of more teachers and the construction of learning facilities such as laboratories and classrooms. 

He said these measures were part of a broader plan to strengthen the education system and prepare young people for future opportunities.

Ruto further addressed concerns surrounding curriculum reforms, stating that issues affecting the Competency-Based Curriculum had been reviewed and streamlined. 

According to him, the education system is now clearer and more responsive to the needs of learners, parents, and teachers.

He described education as Kenya’s most valuable investment, saying the country’s strength lies in its people rather than natural resources. 

For this reason, he said, the government would continue allocating more resources to schools and training institutions.

The remarks came shortly after the president received a detailed briefing from senior officials in the education sector at State House, Nairobi. 

The meeting focused on ongoing reforms, funding challenges, and strategies to improve learning outcomes nationwide.