Officials in the Ministry of Education have expressed concern over a proposed KSh100 billion budget cut in the 2026/2027 financial year, warning that it could disrupt key education programmes across the country.
Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) Director Prof Charles Ong’ondo said the funding shortfall being faced by the ministry as the National Treasury finalises the next budget could affect the implementation of various school programmes.
Speaking during the finals of the Rangwe Sub-County Music Festival in Homa Bay County, Prof Ong’ondo noted that although budget reductions may cause disruptions, it is common for government ministries and agencies not to receive all the funds they request.
He said the resources allocated to the education sector should be utilized effectively to ensure the success of learning programmes and urged education officials to remain focused on delivering their targets.
The Ministry of Education relies on government funding to support free education and administer national assessments, including the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA), and other critical programmes.
Prof Ong’ondo assured stakeholders that the ministry would make the best use of the funds available to ensure learners continue receiving quality education.
The KICD director also called on schools to promote talent development through co-curricular activities, saying the Competency-Based Education (CBE) and Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) seek to nurture every learner’s potential through arts and sports pathways.
Kenya Music Festival Executive Secretary Janet Langat defended the annual festivals, saying they are an important part of learning and not a waste of instructional time.
Homa Bay County Education Director Eunice Khaemba described the music festivals as valuable platforms for learners to express themselves and develop skills that can generate income through the creative economy.
She urged communities to work closely with schools in addressing challenges facing the education sector, particularly in supporting infrastructure development and improving learning environments.
