Schools face closure as cash crisis bites

The strike threat by teachers in public schools is likely to lead to the closure of the institutions, which are also facing a shortage of funding.

A spot check by the Nation has shown that the teachers’ strike aside, schools could still close because they have run out of money to run their activities.

Many of the schools have huge debts with their suppliers while subordinate staff have threatened to stay away from work in protest over non-payment of salaries.

In Baringo County, head teachers who spoke to the Nation said they were unable to pay for essential goods such as food and books. (Read: Book traders protest against payment delay)

For instance, at Kabarnet High School, which has more than 1,000 students, suppliers have threatened to suspend delivery of food and sanitary items by this week if they do not receive their dues.

The principal, Mr Julius Mambili, said the school had suspended buying learning and teaching materials.

“We are appealing to the government to move with speed and release the funds. We fear the situation will worsen when Form Ones report to school from next week,” he said.

The situation is not different at Visa Oshwal Primary School, with a population of over 1,300 learners. The school has not yet paid its water and electricity bills. It has also not met other maintenance costs.

The head teacher, Mr Job Kimitei, said the school was facing a shortage of teaching materials. “We are also having difficulty in paying our support staff, including watchmen, which has affected their morale,” he said.

In Nyeri, schools have had to survive by relying on old equipment and materials. Teachers are worried that they may not be able to continue teaching due to lack of materials.

The Kenya Union of Post Primary Teachers (Kuppet) has threatened to go to court over delays in releasing cash for schools, saying the Ministry of Education has been making empty promises over the disbursement. (Read: Mutula faults Treasury for funds delays)

“We have written to the ministry, asking for the cash. Unless we take them to court, we do not think they will act fast,” said Kuppet deputy chairman Julius Korir.

Kenya National Union of Teachers branch executive chairman Mutahi Kahiga said suppliers had stopped dealing with indebted schools because they feel they would not be able to pay on time.

Kisumu County Kuppet chairman Zablon Awange said secondary schools in the area are also facing challenges due to the cash crisis.

“We will soon close down because of lack of funds to run schools. Creditors are on our necks and support staff are also threatening to resign following delay in paying their wages,” said Mr Awange.