Migori County Governor Dr. Ochilo Ayacko has launched Sh120 million worth of bursaries to 18,624 Migori students.
Speaking at his official residence, Ochilo said that 18,624 students drawn from secondary schools, Technical Vocational Education Training (TVETs) and tertiary learning institutions spread across the 40 wards would benefit as the school resumes its second term in a week’s time.
He noted that even though bursary issuance was not a function of county government, it was important to focus on education to uplift the standards of education in the county.
The Governor emphasised the significance of prioritising education, stating that bursaries were not just a county duty but a moral obligation to uplift the youth.
He declared that education is the cornerstone of progress in any given society noting that the county would continue to commit to nurturing talent from an early age through support for Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE).
However, Ochillo decried that the road to educational empowerment hasn’t been without its challenges as he candidly noted the delays in exchequer releases, which have resulted in the postponement of bursary disbursements in the first term of the academic calendar year.
He said that despite these hurdles, the county remained steadfast in its mission to ensure equitable distribution, taking into account factors such as gender balance and inclusivity across all 40 wards.
As the countdown to the bursary distribution begins, Governor Ayacko issued a heartfelt plea to beneficiaries, urging them to seize this opportunity with diligence and gratitude.
He explained that education success would underscore the transformative power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty in the county.
However, Ochilo acknowledged the sobering reality of resource constraints, lamenting the inability to employ more ECDE teachers due to limited funds.
He pointed out that the suspension of the Public Service Board only exacerbated these challenges, casting a shadow over the county’s efforts to provide quality education for all.
By Geoffrey Makokha
