By Staff Writer 

The Government has released KSh18.5 billion in capitation for the third term of 2026 as basic education institutions reopen across the country.

According to a press statement issued by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, the Ministry of Education said KSh18,508,271,486.60 has been released to support learners in public pre-primary, primary, junior and senior schools during the new term.

Free Primary Education has received KSh1.401 billion, while Free Day Junior School Education has been allocated KSh6.144 billion.

Free Day Secondary Education has received the largest share, amounting to KSh10.963 billion. The Ministry said the allocation is intended to facilitate the smooth running of schools and support the conduct of activities during the term.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to providing free and compulsory basic education, citing Article 53(1)(b) of the Constitution, which entitles every child to free and compulsory basic education.

Ogamba directed school heads and principals to use the funds prudently and ensure that public resources are used for the benefit of learners.

He also warned schools against imposing unauthorised levies on learners.

“As a Ministry, we will deal firmly with any verified cases of misappropriation of resources and the imposition of unauthorised levies,” Ogamba said.

The ministry’s warning places school administrators under scrutiny over the management of public funds allocated for education.

It said school heads and principals have a responsibility to ensure that resources entrusted to them are used appropriately.

The government said the latest disbursement is part of its responsibility to learners and educational institutions as schools begin the final term of the 2026 academic year.