Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has unveiled a KSh170 million secondary school scholarship programme, declaring that his administration will not allow financial hardship to deny children the chance to pursue education. The initiative will benefit 4,000 bright learners in its first phase and is being hailed as a major boost for vulnerable families across the county.
Sakaja described the scholarships as a restoration of hope for thousands of households struggling to keep their children in school. He thanked the Controller of Budget, the Ministry of Education, and the Council of Governors for resolving last year’s impasse and anchoring the programme firmly within the law. He emphasised that education remains “the greatest equalizer,” stressing that every child deserves a fair opportunity to succeed regardless of background.
The Governor highlighted the scale of Nairobi’s education challenge, noting that a population of nearly seven million people is currently served by only 230 public schools. He said this gap underscores the urgency of expanding infrastructure through ward-based funds and collaboration with the national government. “We have a lot to do, and that is why we must come together to bridge this gap,” he remarked.
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Sakaja also pointed to the Dishi na County school feeding programme as a critical pillar of retention and performance. He revealed that the county has so far provided 68 million meals, which have contributed to improved attendance and increased enrolment.
“A hungry child cannot learn. By ensuring learners are fed, we are keeping them in school and giving them the energy to succeed,” Sakaja said.
Education officials welcomed the scholarship drive, saying it will ease the financial burden on parents while enabling talented learners to remain focused on their studies. The scholarship programme is part of Nairobi County’s education strategy aimed at improving learning conditions and ensuring that every child, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
By Masaki Enock
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