Discussion Paper No. 55 of 2006 on Financing of Secondary Education in Kenya: Costs and Options

Abstract

This study examines the financing of secondary education in Kenya and explores possible financing options for the next ten years. This study uses data from various sources, including education trend statistics, the 2003 school census, Teachers Service Commission data returns and the 1997 Welfare Monitoring Survey. The Education Simulation and Financial Projection model provides basis for projecting both growth in secondary school enrolment, resource needs and financial implications of various policy options over the target period. Provision of quality secondary education is important in generating the opportunities and benefits of social and economic development. The long-term plan for secondary education sub-sector in Kenya is to include the sector under basic education. In the medium term, educational needs for secondary education are likely to increase due to the introduction of Free Primary Education in 2003 and the targeted 70 percent transition rate by 2008. Secondary enrolment is expected to grow by 200 percent from 0.9 million in 2004 to 2.7million by 2015. This will require increased resource mobilization towards secondary education sub-sector in recurrent and physical infrastructure expansion. Financing of the envisaged expansion of secondary education calls for identification of sustainable financing options that maximize on cost-effectiveness in resource utilization...