DCI Investigates 28 Education Directors Over Ksh900 Million Ghost Students
The Ministry of Education has launched disciplinary action against 28 sub-county education directors following an audit that uncovered over 900,000 ghost learners in schools across the country, with public funds worth more than Ksh900 million implicated.
Disciplinary Actions Underway
Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok confirmed at Lenana Primary School that show-cause letters have been issued to the 28 directors identified as potentially culpable. The matter has also been forwarded to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) for further investigation and possible legal action.
"I have already written letters for the show cause for 28 directors of education around the country who are expected to be culpable and should show cause why they should not be disciplined," said Bitok.
Education CS Julius Ogamba has also ordered investigations into over 30 school heads suspected of involvement in the irregularities.
Audit Findings
The audit revealed widespread discrepancies in school enrolment data, raising concerns over inflated learner numbers aimed at claiming additional capitation funds and other government allocations. Key findings include:
- 973,634 learners listed in public schools were non-existent.
- Funding worth Ksh912 million was disbursed to these ghost learners during the third term of 2025.
- Primary schools accounted for 885,904 of the unverifiable learners, while secondary schools had 87,730 students missing from records.
- 27 schools were found to be non-operational despite being listed as active and receiving funds.
Next Steps
With the report now submitted to the EACC, officials are expected to summon the education directors and school heads suspected of irregularities. The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has been tasked with disciplinary measures, which may include immediate dismissal of school heads found guilty.
Bitok reassured the public of the government’s commitment to accountability and prudent use of public resources, emphasizing that those found culpable will face consequences.