Kakamega: Kakamega Governor, Fernandes Barasa, has initiated the release of Sh30 million in bursary funds to polytechnics across the county's 12 sub-counties. The funding aims to support approximately 5,870 students in 68 polytechnics, with each student set to receive Sh5,000.

According to Kenya News Agency, the governor also announced the county's plans to resume bursary disbursements to secondary schools. This follows the signing of an Intergovernmental Participatory Agreement (IPA) with the Ministry of Education, which resolves a previous blockade by the Controller of Budget. The agreement allows the county to allocate Sh150 million to secondary schools, including grade 10 learners, starting January 2026.

During the event at Kakamega County Polytechnic, Governor Barasa instructed the County Executive for Education and Chief Officer for Finance to address funding delays to ensure timely capitation for county polytechnics and Early Childhood Education Centres (ECDEs). This measure aims to prevent disruptions in educational activities.

The governor highlighted an additional investment of Sh10 million in tools and equipment for five newly established polytechnics, emphasizing the county's commitment to providing quality technical training. "We are doing a lot of investments in the Technical Training Institutions as a county government because we appreciate the value of the training to our students," he stated.

Governor Barasa also urged polytechnic principals to manage funds responsibly and warned against the misuse of resources. He declared that any misuse of funds would be met with strict action, underscoring the importance of prudent financial management amid numerous development priorities.