Uasin Gishu County will this year disburse Sh. 165 million as bursaries to more than 23,000 needy students from across the county.
According to Uasin Gishu Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim, this marks an increase of Sh. 46 million as compared to last financial year. The number of beneficiaries has also increased by 5,259 students to 23,330. This marks the highest amount of bursary disbursement since the inception of the county.
Speaking while presenting bursary cheques to the needy students in Kamagut and Kapsaos wards in Turbo Sub-County, Governor Bii said he had fulfilled the promise he made last year to increase bursary allocations to reach needier learners.
The beneficiaries include students from secondary schools, technical institutions, colleges, and universities; thus, the governor also highlighted that the bursaries will significantly alleviate the financial burden on parents as the funds will cover their children’s tuition fees.
“My administration recognises the paramount importance of education, and we believe the students will make us proud by achieving their goals. I urge them to work extra hard to realise their dreams,” he said.
The county boss further underscored that education was a key pillar under his Nguzo Kumi’s manifesto and affirmed his commitment to investing more in the sector. He also announced plans for the implementation of a school feeding program in ECDEs across the county.
County Executive Committee Member for Education, Vocational Training, Gender, Social Protection, and Gender, Anthony Sitienei, described education as an equalizer in life and urged bursary beneficiaries to make good use of the support to change their livelihoods in the future.
The CECM further encouraged students who did not meet university entry points to enrol in vocational training centres (VTCs). The bursaries will be disbursed to all 30 wards in the county.
By Kiptanui Cherono
