Schools Reopen for Third Term Amid Funding and Examination Concerns
Learners across the country have returned to school for the nine-week third term amid growing concerns over school funding, outstanding debts and preparations for national examinations.
Nairobi, Kenya | August 24, 2026
Schools across Kenya have reopened for the third and final term of the academic year, with millions of learners returning to classrooms as education stakeholders raise concerns over funding challenges and the financial pressure facing many public schools.
The nine-week term is expected to be particularly demanding for candidates preparing for national examinations, as schools intensify revision and complete the remaining sections of the curriculum.
However, the reopening comes amid concerns that delays and challenges in the release of school capitation funds could affect the smooth running of learning institutions.
Some schools are reportedly struggling with outstanding debts owed to suppliers, including those providing food, electricity and other essential services, raising concerns about their ability to operate effectively throughout the term.
School administrators have warned that inadequate resources could interfere with the provision of essential learning materials and other services required to support students during the final term.
The financial challenges could also place additional pressure on parents and guardians, particularly as schools prepare candidates for national examinations and other end-of-year assessments.
For examination candidates, the term will be crucial as they enter the final stages of preparation ahead of the national tests. Teachers are expected to focus heavily on revision, assessments and addressing areas where learners require additional support.
Education stakeholders are now calling on the government to address the funding concerns and ensure that schools receive the necessary resources to operate without disruption.
As the third term gets underway, attention will remain on whether schools receive the resources needed to operate smoothly and provide a stable learning environment while ensuring that examination candidates are adequately prepared for their national assessments.