This archive report was first published on 23 May 2020.
Published on May 23, 2020, the Kenyan government has allocated Sh6.5 billion to the Ministry of Education to support online learning and hire 10,000 teachers during the COVID-19 period.
President Uhuru Kenyatta announced the allocation as part of a massive Sh53.7 billion stimulus package to jump-start the economy.
According to a recent study by Usawa Agenda, about 80% of students are missing out on virtual classes set up following the closure of learning institutions as part of coronavirus containment efforts.
The study found that only 22% of students interviewed in 42 counties were accessing online learning resources, with those enrolled in private schools being twice as likely to take part in digital learning compared to their counterparts in public schools.
President Kenyatta said the programme will also support the improvement of education infrastructure, including the acquisition of over 250,000 desks made by local artisans.
