President Ruto Urges Swift Passage of Finance Bill to Secure Education Funding

HomeNewsPresident Ruto Urges Swift Passage of Finance Bill to Secure Education Funding

President Ruto Urges Swift Passage of Finance Bill to Secure Education Funding

President William Ruto has urged MPs to quickly pass the Finance Bill to secure budgetary funding for the education sector.

During Garissa University’s 5th Graduation ceremony on Thursday, the President emphasized the need for the National Assembly to speed up the process of supporting children’s education.

He mentioned that the government has already allocated Ksh660 Billion for education in the 2024/2025 budget, covering all educational levels.

The President highlighted that the allocations include hiring Junior Secondary School teachers, making it crucial to approve the bill.

“I urge the Members of Parliament here to fast-track the parliamentary process so we can make these deserving teachers permanent and pensionable after teaching for the past two years.”

President Ruto also pointed out that funds allocated to the school feeding program would be at risk if the bill isn’t passed.

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He also noted the government’s new funding model for universities, which allocates resources based on students’ needs.

The President revealed that 80,000 students did not apply for government scholarships or funding.

He commended these students’ parents, saying their patriotic act allowed the government to provide scholarships to those in need.

“I appeal to our parliamentarians to ensure that every Kenyan child has a chance by expediting the work in parliament to facilitate these loans and scholarships for our children.”

The President said that the Higher Education Loans Board has a budget of Ksh62 Billion for university scholarships and loans.

However, on Wednesday, the National Treasury, through Cabinet Secretary Njuguna, informed the National Assembly that proposed amendments to the Finance Bill could result in a Ksh200 billion revenue shortfall.

The Treasury warned that this shortfall could lead to cuts in funding for critical sectors, including education and internships if the amended Finance Bill is passed.

President Ruto Urges Swift Passage of Finance Bill to Secure Education Funding

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