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Parliament is right to put the finances of national schools under the microscope.
Public schools handle taxpayers’ money. Parents also make substantial contributions. Both deserve to know that every shilling is being put to proper use.
The hearings before the National Assembly Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education are therefore a welcome exercise in accountability.
Bishop Gatimu Ngandu Girls High School is among the institutions answering audit queries.
The school was questioned over a Sh1 million investment in Nairobi Securities Exchange shares that generated just Sh5,381 in dividends in one year. MPs also sought documentation and evidence of the necessary approvals.
The issue is not whether schools can invest money. The fundamental question is whether public funds are being managed prudently and delivering value.
This is precisely why audits and parliamentary oversight matter.
The Auditor General has identified gaps in the allocation, budgeting and disbursement of capitation and infrastructure grants in schools.
Such findings cannot simply gather dust. Parliament must follow the money, demand answers and ensure recommendations are acted upon.
School administrators who manage public resources must understand that accountability comes with the responsibility.
The objective should not be to punish institutions for genuine mistakes. It should be to stop waste, strengthen financial management and ensure resources reach the classroom.
Kenya cannot afford to lose scarce education funds through poor decisions or weak controls. Every shilling meant for education must count.
Quote of the Day: “Good governance with good intentions is the hallmark of our government. Implementation with integrity is our core passion.” —Indian PM Narendra Modi was born on September 17, 1950
