Kenya’s commitment to improving education continues to place school infrastructure at the centre of national development, with the government recognising that modern, safe and well-equipped learning facilities are essential for improving the quality of education. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has emphasised the government’s commitment to modernising school infrastructure, a priority that reflects the need to create better learning environments for students across the country.

The modernisation of schools is an important part of strengthening Kenya’s education system. As enrolment increases and the demands of education change, schools require adequate classrooms, properly equipped laboratories, libraries, sanitation facilities and other essential resources. Such improvements can help learners study in a more comfortable environment while supporting teachers in delivering lessons effectively.One of the clearest examples of the infrastructure modernisation agenda is the improvement programme at Wajir High School, where Omollo highlighted a multi-million-shilling upgrade in May 2026. The project included the construction of additional classrooms, expansion of dormitories, a perimeter wall, internal roads, a borehole, solar power installation and the rehabilitation of older buildings. It also included a modern information and communication technology hub and library being developed through a partnership involving Safaricom Foundation and the National Government.

The Wajir High School project demonstrates how school modernisation can involve much more than constructing new classrooms. A school needs reliable water, electricity, secure boundaries, adequate accommodation and facilities that allow students to access information and develop practical skills.Omollo has also defended increased government funding for the education sector, describing investment in education as an investment in Kenya’s future. In remarks reported by the Kenya News Agency on June 20, 2026, he said the education budget had increased by more than KSh 200 billion since the Kenya Kwanza administration took office in 2022. He said the additional funding was intended to improve access to quality education and provide adequate learning infrastructure across all 47 counties.

The increased funding discussion comes amid pressure on the education sector to accommodate more learners, improve facilities and support the transition to the Competency-Based Education system.The importance of school modernisation is illustrated by the experience of Omollo Agar Primary School in Karachuonyo Constituency, Homa Bay County.

In September 2025, the school received a KSh 35 million infrastructure upgrade funded by the M-Pesa Foundation following efforts by Omollo to secure support for the institution. The project involved rebuilding old facilities, constructing walkways, improving sanitation through water storage facilities, establishing a kitchen and fencing the school compound.

Before the intervention, the school faced serious infrastructure challenges. According to the report, some learners studied in rooms with mud walls and dusty floors, while inadequate classroom space forced teachers to divide learning areas in ways that disrupted lessons.The school also experienced poor sanitation and security challenges because animals could enter the compound freely. These conditions affected the learning environment and made it difficult for teachers to provide effective instruction.

The upgrade demonstrated how investment in basic facilities can improve the daily experience of learners. Secure school compounds, clean water, suitable classrooms and proper sanitation are not luxuries; they are essential components of a functional education system.

Omollo has previously encouraged public servants and private-sector organisations to support schools within their communities, stressing that children should have opportunities to learn in a conducive environment regardless of their backgrounds. Modern infrastructure and the Competency-Based Education curriculum

The transition to Competency-Based Education has increased the importance of developing facilities that support practical and learner-centred instruction.

Under this approach, students require opportunities to conduct experiments, use digital learning resources, participate in group activities and develop skills relevant to everyday life and future employment.

Science laboratories are particularly important because they enable learners to understand scientific concepts through experiments and practical demonstrations. Computer laboratories and libraries can broaden access to information, encourage independent research and improve digital literacy.Safety, sanitation and student welfare

Modernising schools also involves improving the safety and welfare of learners.

A school should provide a secure environment in which students can attend lessons without unnecessary risks. Perimeter walls and fences can help control access to school compounds, while suitable dormitories and properly maintained buildings can improve the welfare of boarding students.

Access to clean water and adequate sanitation is equally important. Poor sanitation can expose learners to illness, disrupt attendance and undermine their ability to concentrate in class.Supporting schools in disadvantaged regions

Equitable distribution of infrastructure investment remains another important issue.

Schools in arid and semi-arid regions, remote communities and areas with limited public services may face additional difficulties in obtaining water, electricity, building materials and specialist educational equipment.

When such challenges are not addressed, learners may experience unequal educational opportunities simply because of where they live.Employment, skills and national development

School infrastructure investment can also support economic development beyond the education sector.

Construction projects create demand for labour, building materials, transport and other services. Once facilities are completed, schools can provide better opportunities for learners to develop skills that are useful in higher education, employment and entrepreneurship.

Omollo has also highlighted investment in technical and vocational education as an important part of preparing young Kenyans for the labour market.Accountability and implementation remain essential

Despite the importance of the government's stated commitment, the success of school modernisation will ultimately depend on implementation.

Parents and communities will want to see whether announced projects are completed, whether the facilities are usable and whether the improvements reach learners who need them most.

Construction delays, inadequate supervision, poor workmanship and insufficient maintenance can undermine the benefits of infrastructure spending. Transparent procurement, independent inspections and clear reporting on project progress are therefore essential.