NAIROBI, Kenya – The National Assembly Committee on Education has called for a fresh audit of Sh11.6 billion owed to the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), citing persistent irregularities in the distribution of textbooks and learning materials to public schools.
During a meeting with KICD Director-General Prof Charles Ochieng Ong’ondo on Tuesday, the lawmakers questioned how the Institute manages its annual budget—currently standing at Sh1.18 billion for the 2024/2025 financial year—amid widespread complaints that some schools receive excess textbooks while others have none.
Committee chairperson Julius Melly said the huge pending bill must be reviewed to establish how resources are being used and whether learners across the country are receiving equitable access to materials.
“This Sh11.6 billion should be audited afresh. Some schools have an oversupply of books while others have none. We need accurate data on the number of students and the books required,” said Melly.
Prof Ong’ondo attributed the inconsistencies to errors in the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS), saying book distribution relies on school enrollment data from the system.
“We supply based on NEMIS data. However, some schools without NEMIS codes miss out on supplies while others receive more than required,” he said, adding that all deliveries are accompanied by signed receipts from head teachers.
The KICD chief said the Ministry of Education is verifying the pending bills, while efforts are underway to correct data discrepancies that have led to unequal distribution.
Concern over APBET schools
The committee also raised concerns about Alternative Provision for Basic Education and Training (APBET) schools in informal settlements, which were previously included in textbook distribution but later excluded.
“These schools serve hundreds of students where public schools are scarce. What is being done to reintegrate them into the programme?” Melly asked.
Equity and infrastructure challenges
MPs Abdul Haro (Mandera South) and Julius Taitumu (Igembe North) urged KICD to ensure fair distribution of learning materials to remote areas such as northern Kenya.
The lawmakers also inspected the stalled construction of a KICD training centre, which has been delayed for years due to funding shortages.
Piracy and AI threats in publishing
Baringo North MP Joshua Makilap raised concerns about rampant book piracy and the impact of artificial intelligence on the publishing industry.
Prof Ong’ondo said the Institute is working with publishers and law enforcement agencies to curb piracy, noting that substandard and counterfeit books remain a major challenge.
“We have arrested several offenders and continue partnering with publishers to maintain quality and authenticity,” he said.
Expanding language curriculum
Teso South MP Mary Emaase urged KICD to expand the teaching of international languages such as French and German, while also supporting the inclusion of indigenous languages in schools.
Prof Ong’ondo said the Institute is developing new materials for both local and foreign languages to enhance global competitiveness and preserve Kenya’s cultural diversity.
Funding and staffing gaps
The KICD boss revealed that the Institute faces a shortage of at least 100 staff members needed to support curriculum reforms and digital learning content development.
According to its financial report, KICD utilised 95.3 per cent of its Sh1.18 billion budget in 2024/2025 and has proposed an allocation of Sh1.19 billion for 2025/2026.
The agency is seeking additional funding to complete the stalled Education Resource Centre and develop materials for Grade 11 and 12.
“Enhanced funding will enable us to complete key projects and strengthen curriculum delivery nationwide,” Ong’ondo said.
The Committee pledged to support measures promoting equitable access to learning resources, improved teacher training, and digital integration in schools.
