Funding Delays Threaten KCSE Readiness as Schools Struggle with Shortages and Debt

Nairobi — With national exams around the corner, thousands of public schools in Kenya are sounding the alarm over delayed government capitation funds and growing debts. As of late September 2025, more than 6,200 of the country’s 32,000 schools had not yet received crucial funding, preventing them from procuring science lab equipment and other essentials required for practical and final exams. Some principals report arrears on staff salaries dating back months, while debts amounting to tens of millions of shillings are threatening school operations. A principal in Bomet County disclosed a KSh 32 million deficit, warning that students may have to share lab equipment or face compromised exam conditions.