Counties are appealing to senators to resolve a funding freeze that has left thousands of students struggling to pay school fees.

Governors warn that the stalemate over bursary disbursements threatens to derail education for learners in secondary and tertiary institutions.

The dispute dates back to a Nakuru High Court decision in April 2025, which stopped the Controller of Budget (CoB) from approving bursary withdrawals.

The court action followed a January 14, 2025, circular from CoB Margaret Nyakang’o stating that bursaries fall outside the legal mandate of counties.

Although a temporary arrangement was agreed between Nyakang’o and the Council of Governors, the court order continues to block access to the funds.

Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata told the Senate Education Committee that thousands of students face being sent home despite county budgets already allocating money for bursaries.

“As we debate the law and the roles of the two levels of government, students remain at home while preparing for exams,” he said, emphasising the urgency for senators to intervene.

He urged immediate release of the funds, noting that legal issues can be discussed once students resume classes.

Murang’a has already signed a transfer of functions agreement with the Ministry of Education under Article 187 of the Constitution, allowing counties to deliver services more efficiently.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir also appealed for support, stressing the importance of counties in managing bursary programmes.

“Education is not solely a national mandate; it is a shared responsibility,” he said.

“Bursaries ensure no child is left behind because of financial hardship. Counties must complement the national government to bridge gaps and empower marginalised communities.”

He pointed out that families in informal settlements often cannot afford even subsidised schooling, and that county bursary schemes have been vital in keeping children in school.

Murang’a County has invested substantially in education support, spending Sh308 million on bursaries and scholarships for secondary schools, vocational institutions, TVET, colleges, and universities in the 2022/23 financial year.

The following year, the county allocated Sh252 million, mostly to secondary education.

In January 2025, it launched the Sh275 million Inua Masomo programme, targeting the top 10 students in Forms Two, Three, and Four across 256 public day schools, aiming to ease parents’ financial burdens and promote academic achievement.

Governors are now calling on senators to help break the deadlock. They warn that unless the funds are released, thousands of learners will face disrupted education and uncertain futures.