Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i has raised alarm over what he describes as a deepening crisis in Kenya’s education sector, warning that parents and learners are bearing the brunt of policy decisions that lack proper consultation.

Speaking through a statement shared on X on Sunday, January 11, 2026, Matiang’i called on the government to urgently bring together key education stakeholders to address what he termed growing chaos in schools across the country.

Matiang’i, who has previously served as Education Cabinet Secretary, said the issue is not only about policy but about the daily struggles facing parents, teachers and school managers.

He questioned why the government has failed to clearly explain recent changes in education funding, especially reductions in capitation, at a time when schools are already under pressure.

The former CS said the matter is urgent and cannot wait, even as the current administration nears the end of its term. He argued that the remaining time should be used to stabilise the education sector and restore confidence among parents and education professionals.

While calling for action, Matiang’i stressed that solutions can only come from inclusive dialogue involving all players who interact with the education system daily. He said excluding professionals and parents from decision-making has only worsened uncertainty in schools.

Ease burden on parents

Speaking on the need for broad consultations, Matiang’i urged the government to act quickly to ease the burden on parents.

“Even within these 19 months that are left for this administration, can they actually have an urgent consultative meeting with critical role players in the education sector to save the parents this pain?” Matiangi asked.

He went on to list the groups he believes must be involved if meaningful solutions are to be found, noting that education in Kenya is supported by many actors beyond government offices.

“They should get the professional, Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association, Kenya Primary Schools Head Association, get the unions, get the parents association, get the faith-based leaders also, because churches have invested heavily in education in this country,” Matiangi said.

Matiang’i also pointed to the long-standing role played by faith-based institutions in building and running schools, saying their contribution cannot be ignored in national discussions on education.

“Ukiangalia mashule kubwa imeanzishwa na kanisa,” Matiangi said.

He further criticised the government for failing to clearly communicate changes affecting school funding, saying this lack of explanation has fueled confusion and frustration among parents and school administrators.

“Nawaomba hao ndugu zetu wako kwa serikali waite the stakeholders to solve the chaos in the education sector. The government can’t explain why they reduced the capitation,” he stated.

Matiang’i’s remarks come at a time when many parents have complained about rising school costs, delayed funds to public schools, and uncertainty around education policies.

I call upon the government to urgently convene broad consultative meetings to address the growing crisis in our education sector. Parents should not be subjected to unnecessary pain and uncertainty caused by avoidable policy failures. Our children deserve better. pic.twitter.com/IedodpehJq

— Dr. Fred Matiang'i (@RealMatiangi) January 11, 2026