Kirinyaga Central Allocates Record Sh59.2 Million for Student Bursaries

KIRINYAGA — In a significant move to support education, the Kirinyaga Central National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) has announced the disbursement of Sh59.2 million in bursaries for the current financial year. This allocation marks the highest investment in education by the constituency since the inception of the NG-CDF, benefiting over 15,000 students across various educational stages and institutions.

According to Kenya News Agency, Gachoki Gitari, the fund is set to cater to school fees for all successful applicants, with students in day schools receiving Sh5,000 each. Those in boarding schools will be allocated Sh6,000, while students boarding outside the county and those in institutions of higher learning will receive Sh10,000 each. Gitari emphasized his commitment to enhancing education through financial support and infrastructure development, while also cautioning parents against attempting to manipulate the application process.

The launch of the bursary disbursement was also an occasion for local educational leaders to highlight the academic achievements of Kirinyaga Central sub-county. Lucy Mbai, Director of Education for the sub-county, praised the area’s performance and the MP’s dedication to education. She also underscored the importance of parental involvement in school activities and the generosity of school principals in accommodating students facing fee challenges.

Additionally, Deputy County Commissioner Joseph Murethi addressed the need for talent identification and the eradication of alcoholism and drug abuse as factors affecting educational achievement. He advocated for the participation in technical and vocational education as a pathway to employment and skill development, noting the government’s efforts to facilitate labour migration through skill acquisition.

The announcement was welcomed by parents of beneficiaries, who expressed gratitude for the bursary scheme’s role in relieving the financial burden of school fees. The NG-CDF’s contribution to educational development, particularly in the construction of school infrastructure, was also recognized as a vital component of the constituency’s academic success.