Busia County Governor Paul Otuoma has commissioned 97 Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) classrooms constructed under the Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) in a move aimed at strengthening early learning across the County.
The commissioning ceremony, held at Butula Boys Primary in Butula Sub-County, marked a significant milestone in the county’s education sector, with the new facilities expected to benefit 47,224 ECDE learners enrolled in public centres.
Addressing education stakeholders and residents, Governor Otuoma described the project as a transformative intervention designed to provide a conducive learning environment for young children during their formative years.
He noted that global research shows that between 85 and 90 percent of brain development occurs before the age of six, underscoring the urgency of investing in quality early childhood infrastructure.
The county chief said that his administration has prioritized early learning in its development agenda, revealing that the 2025/2026 Financial Year budget provides for the construction of an additional 67 ECDE classrooms.
The planned expansion, he added, aims to achieve a 1:1 ratio — one modern classroom for every ECDE stream across the county.
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Dr. Otuoma further emphasized the long-term socio-economic returns of investing in early childhood education, arguing that sustained funding in the sector contributes to reduced crime rates, improved employability and stronger economic growth over time.
He reiterated the county government’s commitment to equity and inclusion, stating that expanding ECDE infrastructure will bridge disparities between rural and urban learners. According to the governor, education remains the most powerful equalizer in society.
The governor also acknowledged the contribution of development partners in advancing early learning. He commended Africa Inland CCAD for constructing two twin classrooms at Makale ECDE Centre and Lwanyange ECDE Centre in Bukhayo Central Ward, Nambale Sub-County. He also recognized UNICEF for supporting training on nurturing care for early childhood development.
The event was attended by senior county officials, including County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education and Industrial Skills Beatrice Nakholi, Pamela Awori (Public Service Management and Governance), Topista Naiti (Public Works), Andrew Meso (Strategic Partnership), Chief Officer John Murioki, and other administrators.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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