What Every School Owner Should Know Before Starting a Building Project

Recent data from the Economic Survey shows that Kenya has close to 100,000 learning institutions across pre-primary, primary, and secondary levels, with 28,211 classified as private schools. This reflects the significant investment made by school owners who have committed time, resources, and personal savings to establish centres of learning across the country.

Despite this growth, a worrying trend has emerged. Between 2019 and 2022, more than 7,000 schools were shut down, and in 2025 alone, over 2,000 more risk closure due to low enrolment and financial strain.

This comes at a time when Kenya’s population, and by extension the student population, continues to rise. The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics projects that the population will grow from 48 million in 2020 to 57 million in 2030 and 70 million in 2045. The paradox of a rising population and struggling schools highlights a core challenge: inadequate infrastructure planning. This challenge is particularly common among private institutions that operate as businesses and must balance cost with long-term sustainability.

To build or expand a school that can attract students, compete effectively, and remain sustainable, infrastructure planning is essential. Below are key considerations for school owners and administrators before starting any building project.

1. Selecting the Site

Choosing the right location plays a major role in the success of a school. The site affects accessibility, safety, enrolment levels, and the overall learning environment.

Key considerations include accessibility by road, proximity to communities, and safety of the surrounding area. The site should also offer a quiet and conducive environment for learning, away from heavy industrial activity. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), required by NEMA for most educational projects, help determine the suitability of the land, including drainage, noise levels, and waste management.

It is also important to understand the soil type. Areas with black cotton soil, which are common in Nairobi outskirts, Kajiado, Nakuru, and Kisumu, require more costly foundations.

2. Project Design

Whether building a new institution or expanding an existing one, architectural and structural design must be deliberate.

The design should comply with Ministry of Education standards regarding classroom size, ventilation, sanitation blocks, accessibility for learners with disabilities, and emergency exits. The layout must allow smooth movement of learners and adequate natural lighting and aeration.

Schools must also align their designs with the Competency-Based Curriculum, which requires laboratories, ICT rooms, multipurpose rooms, and adequate outdoor spaces. Future expansion should be considered through a phased approach that allows the school to grow without major disruptions.

Working with qualified architects, engineers, and designers ensures that the project is safe, functional, and aligned with educational needs.

3. Engaging Stakeholders

Successful school construction projects involve early engagement with stakeholders. These include school boards, teaching and non-teaching staff, parents, students where appropriate, community leaders, and neighbours.

Stakeholder input ensures the design meets real needs. Parents can highlight safety and facility concerns, teachers can advise on staff and classroom requirements, and community representatives can help prevent conflicts. This engagement builds ownership and increases the likelihood of community support for the project.

Also Read: I Quit My Job, Started a Kindergarten Then Got Auctioned.

4. Budget and Funding

School construction is capital-intensive, and many institutions struggle due to irregular fee collection. In addition, some financial institutions consider schools high-risk borrowers.

Before beginning construction, school owners should prepare a detailed Bill of Quantities (BOQ) with the help of a qualified quantity surveyor. This will outline the full financial requirement, including materials, labour, permits, and finishes. A contingency budget of 10 to 15 percent should be included.

Funding options should be explored early. These may include savings, grants, long-term loans, or education financing facilities. In Kenya, financing institutions such as Jackfruit Finance provide specialised support for schools by offering flexible repayment structures that recognise the unique revenue patterns of educational institutions.

Proper financial planning ensures that projects do not stall midway, which can affect a school’s reputation and long-term enrolment.

5. Legal Requirements and Permits

Kenya has a clear legal and regulatory framework governing construction. Compliance is essential, especially for buildings intended for public use.

Before construction begins, school owners must secure approvals from the County Government, including building plans, zoning compliance, and public health clearances. Architectural and structural plans must also be approved by licensed professionals.

The National Construction Authority requires both contractor registration and project registration. Environmental approvals from NEMA may be required depending on the project’s scale. Fire safety approvals are necessary, along with verification of land ownership documents.

Non-compliance can result in penalties, delays, legal disputes, or even demolition orders. Following due process protects the project, the learners, and the long-term investment.

Wrapping Up

School construction goes beyond erecting buildings. It is a strategic investment that shapes the learning environment, influences enrolment, and determines an institution’s long-term sustainability. With Kenya’s growing population and increased demand for quality education, schools that prioritise strong infrastructure, compliance, and thoughtful planning are better positioned to succeed.

By choosing an appropriate site, engaging experts, consulting stakeholders, planning finances diligently, and following legal procedures, school owners can build safe, sustainable, and future-ready learning spaces.