- Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has challenged learners to remain disciplined and work hard, saying academic success depends on the combined efforts of students, teachers and parents.
- She encouraged students who missed direct university admission to pursue Technical and Vocational Education and Training, describing it as a viable pathway to employment and entrepreneurship.
- School leaders credited the county’s Elimu ni Sasa bursary programme with improving student retention, easing the burden on parents and reducing school dropouts.
Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has challenged learners to strive for academic excellence, saying success in education requires the collective effort of parents, teachers and students.
Speaking during the prize-giving ceremony at Mwereni Secondary School in Lunga Lunga Constituency, Achani urged students to remain disciplined and focused on their studies while calling on parents to play a more active role in guiding their children.
“Academic excellence is a shared responsibility. Parents, teachers and learners must work together to ensure every child reaches their full potential.”
The ceremony honoured top-performing students, including 14 candidates who qualified for university admission to pursue various degree courses.
Achani also encouraged parents to closely monitor their children’s progress during school holidays, saying guidance at home is essential in shaping responsible and successful learners.
TVET offers another path to success
The governor urged students who did not attain the grades required for direct university admission not to lose hope, saying multiple education pathways exist for them to build successful careers.
She encouraged such learners to enrol in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, noting that the country needs more skilled artisans, technicians and professionals to drive economic growth.
Achani said technical training equips young people with practical and marketable skills that increase their chances of securing employment or starting their own businesses.
“University is not the only path to success. TVET institutions offer valuable skills that can empower our youth to secure jobs or create their own opportunities.”
She added that the county government will continue supporting students pursuing technical education through the county bursary programme, alongside beneficiaries in secondary schools, universities and the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC).
Bursary programme praised
Mwereni Secondary School Principal Charles Chimega credited the county government’s Elimu ni Sasa bursary programme with improving access to education by helping needy students remain in school despite financial hardships.
He said the bursary has eased the burden on many parents struggling to raise school fees, allowing learners to attend classes consistently without frequent interruptions caused by fee arrears.
According to Chimega, the programme has also played a key role in reducing school dropout cases, particularly among students from vulnerable households who would otherwise be forced to abandon their education.
He noted that improved fee payment has enabled the school to focus more on academic programmes instead of spending valuable time pursuing outstanding school fees from parents.
“We have witnessed a significant improvement in student retention because many needy learners are now able to remain in school throughout the academic year.”
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Chimega thanked the county government for its continued investment in education, saying sustained support through the bursary programme has given many students an opportunity to complete their studies and pursue higher education or technical training.
By Shaban Omar
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