Ruto's Bold Assurance: Free Education in Kenya Will Prevail

In a moment echoing across Kenya, President William Ruto has committed to safeguard the future of free education. Despite recent financial strains, he emboldens hope for Kenyans nationwide.

Education as a Fundamental Right

Speaking at the St. Martins Parish Light Industries Church in Kariobangi, President Ruto reaffirmed education as an inviolable right of every Kenyan child, “the greatest gift a society can give to its young people.” He emphasized that access, quality, affordability, and relevance of education remain non-negotiable.

A Beacon in Troubled Waters

Ruto’s reassurances come in response to revelations by Treasury CS John Mbadi. John Mbadi’s statement that the government can no longer fund free primary and secondary education due to budgetary constraints sent shockwaves. However, the President lit a beacon of hope by listing strategic measures his administration has put in place to uphold education standards.

Government’s Steps Toward Accessibility

Over the past two years, remarkable strides have been made to ensure universal access to education. The hiring of 70,000 teachers, with plans to recruit an additional 24,000, coupled with enhanced university funding, stand testament to the commitment to leave no child behind. As stated in Pulselive Kenya, infrastructure expansions are also in progress, ensuring robust educational facilities are within reach for all.

Financial Crossroads and Government Guarantees

Yet, a crossroad lies ahead. On July 24, Mbadi announced a drastic cut in school capitation from Sh22,244 to Sh16,900 per learner, citing budget constraints. While the news ripples through classrooms and boardrooms, Gachagua’s opposition accuses the government of financial mismanagement and warns of looming protests if funds aren’t released by August 08.

Opposition’s Response

The political sphere buzzes with defiance as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua criticizes the alleged diversion of education funds toward unrelated empowerment programs. The demand is clear: Fund education or face nationwide protests. The upcoming days will determine if dialogue or demonstration will shape the future.

In these uncertain times, President Ruto stands firm, promising that education, the keystone of Kenya’s progress, will continue unfalteringly to build a brighter tomorrow.