The Narok County government is facing calls to allocate specific bursary funds for students living with disabilities, with claims that they have long been overlooked in education support programs.
Justus ole Kisotu, a representative of persons with disabilities, said the continued marginalization of disabled students has contributed to high dropout rates among vulnerable learners in the region.
“These students have been sidelined for far too long,” Kisotu said during a press briefing in Narok town. “We are urging the county government to not only set aside funds but also make public how much has been allocated to students with disabilities.”
Kisotu called on Governor Patrick ole Ntutu to step in and ensure the bursary system is inclusive and responsive to the needs of all learners, regardless of their physical abilities.
“We are asking the governor to urgently intervene. The bursary process for disabled students often stalls or is neglected altogether,” he noted.
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According to Kisotu, most of the affected students come from economically disadvantaged families and rely heavily on bursaries to stay in school. He warned that without financial assistance, many risk being forced into street begging or dropping out entirely.
“These funds help them pursue their education and avoid the desperation that leads some to the streets,” he added.
Beyond bursaries, Kisotu also urged the county to involve persons with disabilities in economic empowerment programs and community development projects.
“We want to be part of the county’s growth. People with disabilities have been excluded from development initiatives for far too long,” he said. “Inclusion should not be optional—it must be part of policy and practice.”
The call adds to growing pressure on county governments across Kenya to implement inclusive policies that protect the rights of persons with disabilities and promote equal access to opportunities in education and employment.
By KIMUTAI LANGAT
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