Governor Susan Kihika issues bursary cheques to Kuresoi South students

Written by Niva Kimtai and Roy Lumbe

More than 2,000 needy children in Kuresoi South Sub-county have benefited from the recently launched Sh177 million County bursary programme.

The beneficiaries are drawn from universities, colleges, and special and secondary schools.

Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika while issuing cheques at Keringet Ward today pledged her commitment to supporting the education sector through the allocation of more funds in the bursary programme.

With education being top among her main agendas for the county, Kihika urged parents to be actively involved in their children’s academic development by ensuring they remain in school.

According to Kihika education is the greatest equalizer in society and no parent should stay with their children at home due to financial strains saying the same breeds early marriages.

“Through bursaries, I am willing to sacrifice to ensure students remain in school, parents you’ll need to assist me in this, also no disabled child should be denied education which is a basic right,” said Kihika.

She challenged the county legislature to enhance the bursary programme to ensure the kitty is bolstered to at least 6 million to cover the needy students at their respective wards.

Currently, wards receive at least Sh2 million with the governor promising to add an extra Sh1 million in the next fiscal year.

“Sadly, bursaries the way I left as a speaker is the same 10 years later, we need to change that, we’ve added Sh1 million and we need MCAs to also chip in,” she added.

Faith Chemtai, an orphan who is among the beneficiaries said if it was not for the governor, she wouldn’t have gotten an opportunity to study.

“I promise you, that I will work hard to assist others in society,” said Chemtai

Another beneficiary Elizabeth Chemngetich said the bursary will go a long way in improving education within the sub-county.

Also present at the function were Deputy Governor David Kones, acting County Secretary Dr Samuel Mwaura, Executive Members led by Education CEC Zipporah Wambui, Chief Officers, a host of MCAs, and education stakeholders.