Matayos: Matayos Member of Parliament Geoffrey Odanga has urged the national government to increase capitation funds for schools, saying the current allocation is insufficient. Speaking during the opening of a new administration block at Siteko Comprehensive School in Matayos Sub-county, Odanga said many schools are struggling to run their programmes due to inadequate funding.
According to Kenya News Agency, Odanga emphasized the difficulties faced by schools in operating smoothly because of limited funding from the government. He stressed the importance of making education affordable for all by ensuring that the government increases and timely releases the funds allocated to schools.
Odanga highlighted the challenges faced by the primary school sector, specifically noting that it remains largely underfunded. He expressed concern that the limited funding restricts learners’ opportunities to engage in co-curricular activities, which are essential for talent development. Primary school learners currently receive only Sh93 each for such activities, an amount Odanga deems insufficient.
The lawmaker also discussed his efforts through the NG-CDF to enhance school infrastructure and improve the learning environment. He mentioned the construction of a modern administration block worth Sh8.1 million at Siteko Comprehensive School and several ongoing building projects at schools like Mundika Boys Primary. Odanga shared plans to budget for additional storey building projects in the next financial year across the sub-county.
Odanga further urged the residents to focus on development when electing leaders and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and unity. He encouraged the community to choose leaders with proven records of development and warned against divisive politics, underscoring the need for unity in building families, communities, and the country.
