The County Government of Kakamega has stepped up efforts to support education through an ongoing bursary disbursement programme targeting students from vulnerable and disadvantaged backgrounds.
Speaking during a bursary disbursement exercise in Navakholo Sub-County on Thursday, Governor Fernandes Barasa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that no learner misses out on education due to financial challenges.
The county is currently implementing a bursary programme worth Ksh149.3 million across all sub-counties to enhance access to education and promote social and economic transformation through learning.
In Navakholo Sub-County alone, students received bursary cheques totalling Ksh14.7 million, an intervention expected to benefit hundreds of needy learners by enabling them to remain in school.
Residents who attended the event welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely relief for families grappling with rising economic pressures and school fees burdens.
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County Executive Committee Member for Public Service Administration, Dr Bonface Okoth, said the bursary programme remains central to the county’s education agenda and reflects the government’s commitment to eliminating financial barriers to learning.
“Education remains a powerful equaliser and a long-term investment in human capital development. No learner should be denied an opportunity to study because of lack of school fees,” said Dr Okoth.
He also highlighted the Barasa Jamii Scholarship Programme, a partnership between the County Government of Kakamega and ACCESS, noting that it continues to expand opportunities for bright but needy students.
According to Dr Okoth, 44 students from Navakholo Sub-County are currently benefiting from the scholarship initiative, which offers structured academic support to selected learners.
Chief Officer for Communication Mildred Okwako said Governor Barasa’s administration remains focused on transforming education through sustainable and inclusive programmes.
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She urged residents to continue supporting county initiatives, noting that investment in education is critical to community empowerment and long-term development.
The bursary disbursement exercise brought together Members of the County Assembly, senior county officials, education stakeholders and local administrators.
Among those present were Navakholo Sub-County Administrator Evelyne Wanda, KESSHA officials led by Grace Aluvala, chief officers, parents and beneficiaries.
Education stakeholders praised the county government for prioritising bursary funding, saying the programme has continued to ease the financial burden on families struggling to pay school fees.
The bursary initiative forms part of Kakamega County’s broader strategy to improve access, retention and transition in education while promoting equal opportunities for learners across all sub-counties.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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