Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has lauded the Elimu Ni Sasa scholarship programme for its transformative role in changing the lives of girls and women in the region.
Speaking during the FIDA-Kenya Annual Members’ Retreat 2025 in Diani, Kwale County, Achani said that the education programme has been a key driver towards building a just and equal society.
She said since the inception of the education initiative under devolution, bright but financially disadvantaged students have been able to pursue their academic dreams without the burden of school fees, noting that in the past, poverty had forced many girls to drop out of school, denying them opportunities for higher education and professional growth.
“Today, thousands of girls from humble backgrounds have not only completed their studies but have also graduated from various universities, becoming empowered and independent women,” she said.
ALSO READ;
According to the governor, more than 4,000 students are currently on full scholarships in national schools, while over 40,000 others benefit from bursaries in secondary schools. In addition, more than 2,000 students in colleges and universities have so far received support under the initiative.
Achani underscored that the Elimu Ni Sasa programme has been instrumental in reducing early marriages and teenage pregnancies in the county by keeping girls in school.
The programme was initiated by former Governor Salim Mvurya and strengthened and expanded by Governor Achani to cater to the needs of more bright and needy students.
She pointed out that education has given many girls a voice, the confidence to pursue leadership roles, and the ability to participate meaningfully in economic and social development.
According to the governor, Kwale’s investment in education is yielding long-term benefits, as many of the programme’s beneficiaries are now working in different sectors, contributing to the local and national economy.
“We are proud to see our daughters become doctors, engineers, teachers, and entrepreneurs. Their success is a testimony that when you educate a girl, you transform an entire community,” she added.
ALSO READ;
PS Isaboke urges Daystar alumni to champion innovation and leadership
Quoting the late South African President Nelson Mandela, Achani said “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”
Achani added that the programme’s success proves that empowering girls through education transforms the entire community.
The governor said her administration banks on education to break cycles of poverty, reduce early marriages, and build a generation of empowered youth.
FIDA-Kenya Chairperson Christine Kungu commended Kwale County’s commitment to empowering women through education, noting that such initiatives align with the organization’s mission to promote gender equality and justice across the country.
Kungu said education is a critical pillar in dismantling systemic barriers that have for decades hindered women from participating fully in leadership, governance, and economic development.
She said that keeping girls in school is not only a social justice issue but also a strategic investment in Kenya’s future.
By Shaban Omar
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
