Thousands of parents in Igembe North constituency in Meru County are set to benefit from a major financial reprieve following the launch of a KSh 69 million bursary fund by area MP Julius Taitumu, aimed at keeping learners in school and reducing the strain of education costs on families.
Residents, education stakeholders, and local leaders gathered at KK Baithai Comprehensive School in Naathu Ward to witness the initiative, which is expected to significantly improve access to education across the constituency, particularly in day schools that serve the majority of learners.
Speaking during the event, MP Taitumu said the bursary program is designed to ensure that no child is sent home due to a lack of fees.
He noted that funds have already been disbursed to boarding schools, colleges, and universities, with the latest allocation extending support to day schools.
“We have made deliberate efforts to support all categories of learners. This is about easing the burden on parents and ensuring continuity in education,” he said.
Education stakeholders welcomed the move, describing it as timely and transformative.
Kamencu Charles, Chairperson of the Mutuati Headteachers Association, said the consistent issuance of bursaries has made school management easier and improved stability in learning institutions.
“This is the first time day schools, which form the largest percentage, are receiving bursaries. It has greatly reduced financial pressure on parents and improved attendance,” he said.
Teachers’ representative Gerald Kamau from KNUT Nyambene region echoed the sentiments, noting that the expanded bursary program has enhanced retention and created a more supportive learning environment.
School administrators reported that the financial support has already contributed to improved performance and reduced dropout rates.
Data presented at the event indicated a 16 per cent drop in school dropout rates, a trend attributed to increased funding and improved access to education.
Mwerongundu Secondary School Principal Hezron Erai emphasised that while bursaries have addressed financial barriers, parents must still ensure their children attend school consistently to fully benefit.
“Education is the only inheritance we can give our children. The support is now available, parents must play their part by keeping learners in school,” he said.
Beyond easing school fees pressure, leaders noted that the bursary program is also helping restore dignity among learners, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds who previously struggled to stay in school.
Reagan Kaberia, CEO of Zoe Global South Organisation, described the bursary fund as a critical investment in the community’s future, urging parents to complement this support by prioritising education at home.
“If you don’t invest in your child’s education, you will have no returns. This support should motivate parents to do more,” he said.
Local administrators also called on parents to take greater responsibility, noting that financial support alone cannot solve challenges such as absenteeism and early pregnancies without active parental involvement.
MP Taitumu revealed that 190 students are currently under full sponsorship in secondary schools, alongside others supported in day schools and higher learning institutions.
He, however, acknowledged that growing population numbers make it difficult to fully sponsor every learner.
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“We may not meet all the needs, but this is a significant step toward ensuring every child has a chance to learn,” he said.
As the program rolls out, parents across Igembe North are expected to feel immediate relief, with leaders expressing optimism that the initiative will not only keep children in school but also uplift the overall standard of education in the region.
By John Majau
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