Kakamega County has launched its highest ever bursary amounting to Ksh240 million that will benefit 59,200 students from all the 60 Wards, which is double the Ksh120 million it set aside for the purpose last year.
Though each Ward will receive Ksh4 million, the allocation will be tilted in favour of persons with disabilities, teen mothers, high school students, ECDE teacher trainees, and county polytechnic students.
Governor Fernandes Barasa, while launching the initiative at Bukhungu Stadium, said they opted to double the allocation following a high number of applicants across all learning levels.
“The least amount allocated to every beneficiary is Ksh4,000. My administration has implemented an affirmative action in the allocation process. Allocating this money to each Ward guarantees equality and gives an opportunity to local leadership, including representatives of MCAs, to make a decision on who deserves this support,” he said.
The governor added that his government has provided Ksh292.5 million for infrastructure in 61 ECDE centres across the county, as Ksh60 million goes to ECDE capitation at Ksh1,000 per learner.
“I’m confident this bursary will have a huge impact on families since it will ease the burden of raising fees during these tough economic times,” he said.
Barasa confirmed that the county is running a university scholarship programme which has benefitted 71 students; 22 in China and 49 in local universities, as well as the County Afya Elimu Fund which gives loans to students in middle-level medical colleges.
“My administration is also partnering with Access Kenya, KCB, Family Bank and Jomo Kenyatta Foundation to support students from vulnerable backgrounds,” he said.
Present were MCAs led by the leader of majority Philip Maina, minority leader David Ndakwa, host Modesta Auka, and Education CECM Dr Bonface Okoth.
By Andanje Wakhungu
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