Kericho County MP Beatrice Kemei has lauded the impressive performance of candidates supported under the Usawa Programme, describing the results as a significant boost for education among vulnerable learners. Speaking in Chemosot, Bureti Sub‑county, Kemei said the outcomes affirm the value of targeted support for students facing socio‑economic and cultural barriers.
Kemei revealed that 45 candidates benefited from the programme, with 30 attaining direct entry to university. “I am extremely happy and proud of these candidates. Out of the 45 students we supported, 30 have qualified for direct university entry, which is a clear indication that the programme is bearing fruit,” she said.
She noted that the beneficiaries were drawn from humble backgrounds, including teen mothers and students who had escaped harmful and outdated cultural practices that previously hindered their education.
Of the 45 candidates, 11 are teen mothers, eight of whom have qualified to join university, while the rest will enroll in colleges. “These results clearly show that given an opportunity, even teen mothers can excel academically. Education truly transforms lives,” she observed.
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Kemei emphasized that the initiative was inclusive, supporting both boys and girls, and aimed at uplifting all vulnerable learners across the county. She thanked teachers for their dedication and support, crediting their mentorship and commitment as key contributors to the students’ success.
“Both boys and girls benefited from the Usawa Programme. I want to sincerely thank the teachers for their dedication and support, which greatly contributed to this success,” she said.
Parents and beneficiaries expressed overwhelming joy, saying the scholarship support restored hope for families that had struggled to afford school fees. “We had given up because we could not afford fees. This support restored our hope and gave our children a second chance,” said one parent, echoing sentiments shared during the event.
The beneficiaries pledged to work harder in their studies to secure a better future, appreciating the opportunity provided through the programme. “We promise to work even harder and make good use of this opportunity. We are grateful for the support we received,” said one of the students.
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Kemei said the results demonstrate the transformative power of education when access barriers are removed, and called for sustained investment in scholarship programmes that target vulnerable groups. She added that the Usawa Programme will continue to prioritize learners at risk of dropping out due to poverty, early motherhood, or harmful cultural practices, ensuring they have a pathway to complete their education and pursue higher learning.
The MP urged community leaders, schools, and partners to strengthen collaboration around student welfare, noting that consistent support, from fees to mentorship, remains essential for long‑term success. She reiterated that the programme’s outcomes should inspire broader efforts to expand educational opportunities for marginalized learners across Kericho and beyond.
By Kimutai Langat
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