Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula has urged President Ruto to consolidate all existing bursary funds from various administrative and political sources into a unified fund to facilitate free basic education across the nation.
This call comes amid growing concerns over educational equity, as Savula criticized the New Higher Education Funding Model, arguing that it fails to adequately support financially disadvantaged students.
He said that the Ministry of Education should discard the contentious model.
Savula made the remarks during a memorial gathering for Mama Susy Musanga Shiroko, the beloved matriarch of the Shiroko family, in the Mushinaka area of Khwisero sub-county on Sunday.
Accompanying him were Kisa North Ward MCA James Etabale, Kisa Central Ward MCA Handman Saya, Shirere Ward MCA David Ikunza, and special-elect MCA Joel Okwako, demonstrating a united front among local leaders.
Echoing Savula’s sentiments, area Senator Dr. Boni Khalwale also criticized the new University Funding Model, calling on Higher Education Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Beatrice Inyangala to propose comprehensive changes.
Khalwale argued that the current model is discriminatory and worsens financial challenges for underprivileged students. He urged Inyangala to present strong recommendations to the President, advocating for the removal of the existing funding model.
“We demand a system where all bursaries are managed through the Ministry of Education, eliminating political interference. Our vision is clear: education must be free from primary through university,” Khalwale asserted, underlining the urgent need for reforms that promote inclusivity in education funding.
As discussions around educational funding continue, local leaders are rallying for a unified approach that prioritizes the needs of all learners, particularly the most vulnerable, ensuring that every student has access to quality education without financial barriers.
By Calistus Imbayi
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
