Kisii County Governor Simba Arati has confirmed the appointment of 13 additional Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) teachers to permanent and pensionable positions.
Speaking at Kisii Stadium during the launch of the Kenya Water and Sanitation Companies Sports (KEWASCO) on yesterday, the Governor explained that these teachers were overlooked during previous confirmation exercises due to common computerization errors.
He added that the ECDE course is essential for the physical, cognitive, and psychological development of young learners and urged teachers to remain dedicated and focused on shaping the lives of these children.
The Governor lamented that ECDE teachers in the county have worked on contract terms for over ten years, until 2023, when 900 teachers were confirmed as permanent and pensionable employees.
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He assured that the terms of service for ECDE teachers will be reviewed regularly based on the availability of funds in the county treasury. Governor Arati noted that Kisii has over 80,000 children enrolled in more than 705 ECDE centers, staffed by over 900 teachers.
He underlined the importance of proper remuneration for these caregivers to motivate them in fostering well-rounded learners during their foundational years, which are crucial for their future success.
“The success of our education system depends on the foundation we lay at the ECDE level; that is why the government is taking a keen interest in supporting it,” he said.
Additionally, the Governor noted that his government’s pride and pleasure in hosting the intercounty KEWASCO sports event, which will commence across the country in March and conclude in August at Kisii Stadium. He welcomed participants and officials from all parts of the nation, assuring them of good security, ample food, and accommodation.
He encouraged visitors from other counties attending the event to take the opportunity to enjoy local tourist attractions, such as the expansive Manga and Sameta Hills, Tabaka soapstone mining and sculpturing, traditional dances, and Gusii heritage experiences at Hotel Humphrey.
He also highlighted historical sites like Otenyo Shrine in Kitutu Chache South and Ogembo town alongside the famous Gucha River.
By Enock Okong’o
