Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has criticized a recent directive from Controller of Budget (CoB) Margaret Nyakang’o to the effect that county governments are not required to use their allocations to finance bursaries.
Sakaja says the move threatens to halt county government bursary programs warning that the move could disrupt the education of thousands of vulnerable learners.
Speaking during a service at the Church of Christ in Africa, Governor Sakaja decried the decision saying over 124,000 students in Nairobi alone will be affected.
He emphasized that the directive if implemented, would leave disadvantaged students stranded and jeopardize their education.
“This directive will negatively affect many learners. Over 124,000 students in Nairobi will be affected, alongside hundreds of thousands across the country. The CoB ought to have considered the welfare of learners before issuing such a directive,” Sakaja stated.
He further defended the county government’s bursary programs, arguing that they are not an infringement on national government responsibilities but a vital lifeline for needy students.
“We understand the roles of the national government, but it is also our duty as counties to cater for the welfare of our people. Until free education is fully realized at all levels, bursaries remain essential,” Sakaja added.
The Governor’s concerns were echoed by local leaders, including Members of Parliament and Members of County Assemblies (MCAs), who attended the service.
Makadara MP George Aladwa voiced the frustrations of leaders facing mounting pressure from parents.
“Bursaries are a lifeline in our constituencies. Starting tomorrow, parents will be flocking to our offices seeking assistance. What do we tell them?” Aladwa questioned.
The directive by Nyakang’o requires county governments to cede the education function to the national government if they wish to continue supporting students.
“Part 1 of the Fourth Schedule under Section 16 designates universities, tertiary educational institutions, primary schools, special education, secondary schools, and special education institutions as functions of the national government,” the CoB said.
“Therefore, any requisition for withdrawal of funds to perform functions categorized as national government functions under Part I of the Fourth Schedule must be accompanied by the requisite intergovernmental agreement as prescribed.”
However, Sakaja urged a review of the circular, warning that it risks derailing efforts to provide equal access to education for all.
The impasse highlights a growing debate over the division of responsibilities between county and national governments, with stakeholders urging solutions that prioritize the welfare of learners over bureaucratic wrangling.
