Teachers Demand Higher Capitation as Annual Conference Kicks Off in Mombasa

By Mbungu Harrison

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

More than 7,000 principals are demanding an increase in capitation from the current Sh17,500 to previous Ks21,000 per student per year saying the amount is inadequate under current economic conditions and Competency Based Curriculum requirements.

Kenya Secondary School Heads Association national chairman Willie Kuria made the call on Monday during a press briefing ahead of the 49th KCB/KESSHA Annual National Conference at Sheikh Zayed Hall, Mombasa County.

The chair said the five-day conference from 22nd to 26th June 2026 would focus on key challenges facing secondary schools, including education financing, digital transformation, mental wellness, accountability, and the link between education, industry and employment.

“The forum will generate practical recommendations to strengthen delivery of Competency Based Education,” he said.

Under the theme _‘Strong Schools and Collaborative Leadership for Promoting Competency Based Education’_, discussions will also review progress of CBE implementation in secondary schools.

He noted that most cases of school unrest are linked to examination pressure and recommended that KNEC adjust the candidate registration schedule to reduce tension among candidates.

The association also proposed transferring students who do not wish to remain in boarding schools to day schools.

However, the chair ruled out converting all boarding schools to day institutions saying the move alone would not solve the problem.

“Changing boarding schools to day schools alone cannot end the unrest problem,” he said.

Sponsored by KCB Bank, the conference will be officially opened on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 by chief of staff and head of public service Felix Koskei.

The Cabinet Secretary for Basic Education will also participate.