Lawmakers and parents are shocked as the future of learning in Kenya stands on shaky ground.
On Thursday, July 25, Members of Parliament exposed several schools that received large amounts of government money but do not actually exist.
According to parliamentary reports, some schools received up to Sh100 million last year as capitation — money sent by the government to public schools to cover costs like textbooks, desks, and meals.
The lawmakers demanded answers from the Ministry of Education, saying public funds are being lost to corruption. Some schools receiving the money had no students, no buildings, and no teachers.
“This is daylight theft,” said MP Peter Lang’at during the parliamentary session.
“How do we explain that fake schools are receiving millions while real schools lack basic facilities?”
The scandal was revealed just weeks after Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba warned that the government can no longer guarantee free education for all.
Speaking at a press event in Naivasha on June 6, Ogamba said the rising cost of education and limited government funds are putting pressure on the system.
“We are facing tough financial times,” he said.
“Free education is no longer sustainable in its current form.”
His comments have sparked fear and anger among parents, many of whom are already struggling to afford daily needs.
With inflation and job losses affecting families across the country, paying school fees may be impossible for many.
“I have four children in public school. If they remove free education, I’ll have to pull them out,” said Beatrice Nyambura, a parent from Nakuru.
“We simply can’t afford it.”
Teachers are also worried about the future. John Muli, a headteacher in Kitui, said his school has not received enough funds in months.
“We are short of textbooks, desks, and even chalk. Now we hear that ghost schools are receiving millions. It’s very painful.”
The Ministry of Education has promised to take action. Officials said they would begin an urgent audit to verify all schools receiving government support.
In a statement on Thursday, the ministry said:
“We take this matter seriously. Any fraudulent activities will be investigated, and those involved will face the law.”
Free primary education was introduced in 2003 under former President Mwai Kibaki, followed by free day secondary education in 2008.
These programs led to a sharp increase in school enrollment and helped many poor families educate their children.
However, in recent years, the system has faced several challenges. Reports of missing funds, delayed disbursements, overcrowded classrooms, and lack of learning materials have become common.
Education experts say the ghost school scandal is just one symptom of a broken system.
“Without proper oversight, money meant for children is going into the wrong hands,” said Dr. Mercy Odhiambo, an education policy analyst.
“We need to clean up the registry, improve monitoring, and hold people accountable.”
Meanwhile, Parliament is expected to hold further discussions on the matter next week. Lawmakers have called for an independent investigation and possible reforms to the way school funding is handled.
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