Kendu bay: Plans are underway to mop up all learners still at home after school reopened, Rachuonyo South Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Sylvester Mwangulo has said. The DCC emphasized that this initiative aligns with the government policy mandating that all children should be educated and therefore present in schools during ongoing school programs.

According to Kenya News Agency, the government is committed to ensuring that no child remains at home while others attend school. The DCC stressed that even students who have completed grade 9 with low grades must continue their education. He assured that the government has disbursed capitation funds to all schools for the first term to ensure the smooth running of school programs.

The DCC expressed concern over school-going children staying at home and loitering at shopping centers, warning that such behavior will not be tolerated. Additionally, he addressed the issue of rising alcohol and drug abuse, stating that anyone caught selling these substances to children will face arrest and legal action. He cautioned bar owners that their licenses would be revoked if they are found in violation of the law.

The DCC made these remarks during the 7th edition of the 'Back to School' event, organized by Homa Bay County Women Representative Joyce Atieno Osogo (Bensuda). The event provided various learners with bursaries and sanitary pads as part of an affirmative action initiative.

According to the Woman Representative, the program comprises five components: academic mentorship, bursary allocation, sexual reproductive health awareness, gender-based violence prevention, and health and sanitation.