Over 100 students from needy households in Trans Nzoia County have received a lifeline after the county government began disbursing the much-anticipated Elimu Bursary Fund on Tuesday, a program designed to cushion vulnerable learners from being locked out of education.
The rollout, launched in Sinyereri (Cherangani Sub-County) and Bidii Ward (Kwanza Sub-County), saw cheques issued to students in Michai, Statunga, Kesogon, Lessos and Bidii secondary schools. The fund prioritizes day scholars, many of whom have struggled to stay in class due to unpaid school fees.
Education CEC Janerose Naimiyu Mutama said the bursary is part of Governor George Natembeya’s pledge to deliver “Education for All” by ensuring no child is left behind because of financial hardship.
“Governor Natembeya is fulfilling his promise to ensure that students from poor backgrounds, especially those in day schools, get the same opportunities as their peers in boarding schools,” Mutama told parents and students during the event.
She challenged beneficiaries to honor the support through academic excellence, while cautioning parents not to abdicate their responsibilities.
“The county is here to help, not to solve every problem. Parents must remain committed to their children’s success,” she said.
ALSO READ:
Chief Officer for Education Kennedy Etiang said the bursary could not have come at a better time.
“Many students had already been sent home for fees. Teachers must now be patient—these learners are supported by the county, so let’s not send them home again,” he appealed.
Parents who attended the launch hailed the program as a game changer. Mary Nafula, whose child is preparing for national exams, said the bursary lifted a huge burden.
“I had no money and my child had been sent home. Today, I thank God he is back in school and can focus on his studies,” she said.
Another parent, Briana Kibet, described the support as a restoration of hope for her family.
The launch was attended by Sinyereri MCA Makhanu Chingi, Director of Vocational Training Eliud Lusweti, Deputy Director Eric Baraza, Director of ECDE Omonya, and Quality Assurance Officer Sichangi Baraza, among other county education officials.
The Department of Education said the bursary disbursement will continue for the next ten days across the county. Today, September 3 , teams will issue cheques in Nabiswa, Kiminini, and Sikhendu wards in Kiminini Sub-County.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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
