MPs Initiate Probe On Disbursement of JSS Capitation

MPs Initiate Probe On Disbursement of JSS Capitation.

A group of Members of Parliament (MPs) is advocating for an investigation into the allocation of funds to junior secondary schools in the country. The MPs from the Budget and Appropriations Committee have raised concerns that unregistered schools are receiving funds intended for registered institutions. This issue was highlighted during a public hearing on the 2024-25 financial budget in Gilgil town.

Gilgil MP Martha Wangari reported that the diversion of funds to non-existent schools has disrupted learning in legitimate institutions, making it difficult for them to pay staff and procure necessary supplies. She urged the Education Cabinet Secretary to address this fraud.

Wangari also pointed out that public schools suffer from inadequate state funding, leading to overcrowded classrooms. In Gilgil, some classes accommodate over 100 students. She called for increased budgetary allocations to improve educational infrastructure.

The recent heavy rains have exacerbated the infrastructure problems, damaging roads and bridges and causing flooding in schools. Wangari expressed hope that the government would provide emergency funds for repairs.

Nyeri Woman Representative Rahab Mukami announced that the committee would work on a supplementary budget to address emergency needs, prioritizing flooded schools, damaged roads, and support for the elderly.

Baringo MP Florence Jematiah, after visiting 11 counties, identified education and infrastructure as major issues. She mentioned that the supplementary budget would allocate additional funds to counties like Nakuru for various projects.

Joshua Mutahi, chairman of the Kenya Primary School Head Teachers Association (Kepsha) in Gilgil, also emphasized the need for rehabilitating school infrastructure in the area.

MPs Initiate Probe On Disbursement of JSS Capitation