Kieni Constituency Member of Parliament Njoroge Wainaina has launched Kieni Affordable Education Programme, to help underprivileged students, many of whom are at risk of dropping out of school due to economic challenges.
“This programme will alleviate the financial burden on families and improve the overall educational experience for students in the Kieni area,” Wainaina stated.
Speaking at Narumoro Grounds during the launch he called on the government to roll out a nationwide school feeding programme to enhance student retention in educational institutions.
The MP highlighted that his initiative, supported by the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), aims to make education more accessible for students in day secondary schools across Kieni.
Parents will contribute a reduced fee of KSh1,500 per term to support the feeding programme.
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The meal plan includes **Githeri** (maize and beans) served three times a week, rice three times a week, and **Uji** (porridge) provided daily at 10am. Food supplies for all participating schools were delivered on the first day of the term, ensuring coverage for the entire 13-week term.
Wainaina revealed that over 4,000 students who had dropped out due to financial constraints are expected to return to school under this programme.
He urged the Ministry of Education to consider replicating the initiative nationwide to ensure more students remain in school.
“To enhance our education system, it is essential for the government to allocate funds for free meals in schools. This will not only retain students but also improve their academic performance,” he said.
Parents who attended the launch expressed their gratitude, noting that the programme has significantly reduced their financial burden, with school levies dropping from Sh7,500 to Sh1,500 per term.
“This is a relief for many of us. We can now focus on other needs while ensuring our children remain in school,” one parent commented.
The Kieni Affordable Education Programme is poised to become a model for addressing student retention and access to quality education through community-driven solutions.
By Rodgers Wagura
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