Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has raised concerns that thousands of students benefiting from the ‘Elimu Ni Sasa’ bursary programme could miss out on education due to the ongoing dispute over bursary issuance.
The controversy arose after a group of Kenyan citizens filed a petition in court challenging an agreement between the Controller of Budget (CoB), Margaret Nyakang’o, and the Council of Governors (CoG), which allowed county governments to continue disbursing bursaries to institutions outside their jurisdiction.
Previously, the COG had issued a circular prohibiting counties from awarding bursaries to primary schools, secondary schools, and universities, stating that such allocations were not legally permitted.
However, following public outcry, the COG and COB reached an understanding, leading Nyakang’o to relax the directive, thereby allowing counties to continue issuing bursaries.
Last week, the High Court issued temporary orders barring Nyakang’o from withdrawing or overturning the circular she had issued on January 14, 2025.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Kwale County headquarters, Achani said that the education of many students in the county is now in jeopardy due to the ongoing bursary dispute.
She said that the county government is unable to continue disbursing bursary funds following the court order.
Achani said that a second batch of students who applied for bursaries earlier this year remains in limbo, as the county lacks the mandate to process the funds until further directives are issued.
“At the moment, my hands are tied. We cannot issue bursaries until the matter is resolved, and I fear that many students’ futures are at risk,” she said.
She said that the ‘Elimu Ni Sasa bursary’ programme has played a crucial role in helping many students achieve their dreams.
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However, she warned that the ongoing interference threatens to undermine the county’s efforts to ensure quality education for all.
Achani further lamented that the decision could rob children of their chance to break free from poverty and improve their lives through education.
The governor urged parents and students to remain patient and hopeful as the matter is being resolved.
“I ask those who had applied for bursary to hold a little longer, hoping things would be resolved soon enough,” she said.
Solution
She reassured them that the county government is committed to finding a solution that will ensure students receive the financial support they need to continue their education.
Achani said that education remains a top priority for her administration, and despite the legal hurdles, she will continue advocating for the rights of Kwale students to access bursaries.
Achani noted that many families in the county rely on the bursary funds to keep their children in school, and any disruption could have devastating effects on their future.
The governor also reaffirmed her dedication to serving the people of Kwale, not just in education but also in other critical areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
She urged leaders and stakeholders to work together in addressing the issue and ensuring that no student is forced to drop out due to financial constraints.
By Shaban Omar
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