Kaiti Member of Parliament (MP) Joshua Kimilu has strongly criticised Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba’s assertion that every Kenyan parent can afford school fees for their children, terming the statement misleading and unrealistic.
“To me, that’s a lie. The majority of parents are facing it rough here and it’s only through education that we will alleviate poverty. Let me assure these parents that despite the harsh economy, the bursary we issue will cushion them where necessary since it’s not even enough for them,” Kimilu said.
The legislator was speaking during the disbursement of bursary cheques to university and college students, urging applicants from December to check their portals for updates. He noted that his office had increased the bursary allocation per learner beyond the initial agreement to ensure students remain in class without disruption.
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“A month ago we met with college and university students. 4,500 university and college students have benefitted from Sh30 million disbursed in December,” Kimilu revealed.
He further highlighted the plight of Grade 10 learners, pointing out that some parents in his constituency could not afford even basic necessities, let alone school fees.
Kimilu criticized the President’s directive that all Grade 10 students join senior school, arguing that principals had not been given clear alternatives or resources to accommodate learners from needy backgrounds.
By Lydia Ngoolo
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