Elgeyo Marakwet Disburses Record Ksh 100 Million in Bursaries to Nearly 10,000 Students
In a landmark move to support access to education, Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich on Thursday disbursed bursaries worth Ksh 100,967,894 to 9,828 needy and vulnerable students across various educational institutions.
The issuance, which took place at the Governor’s office, marks the highest bursary allocation in the county’s history. Of the total amount, 60% was allocated to secondary school students, while the remainder will benefit learners in universities, colleges, and vocational training centers.
“This bursary fund is a lifeline for thousands of families. However, we are walking a tightrope,” Governor Rotich cautioned, citing legal uncertainties surrounding the continued use of county funds for bursaries. “We have engaged the President on the matter, but the future remains unclear due to existing laws.”
Despite the looming legal constraints, the Governor called on residents to rally behind his wealth creation strategy, aimed at empowering families economically so they can sustainably fund their children's education.
“If we embrace wealth creation, we will not only educate our children but also build generational prosperity,” he emphasized.
County Leaders Back the Bursary Initiative
Deputy Governor Prof. Grace Cheserek praised the Governor’s economic blueprint, stating that it is already bearing fruit. “Communities are starting to witness transformation, and we urge everyone to adopt this strategy.”
County Assembly Majority Leader Stephen Cheruiyot led MCAs in commending the Executive for successfully steering Elgeyo Marakwet to be among only three counties in Kenya whose bursary programs were recently approved.
The Chairman of the Education Committee, Christopher Cheboiboch, made a major policy announcement, revealing plans to approve funding in the next financial year to confirm all ECDE teachers on permanent and pensionable terms.
Acting Education CEC Edwin Kibor appealed for enhanced funding for County Vocational Training Centres (VTCs), warning that limited financial support continues to hamper enrolment and skills development.
Community and Clergy Welcome the Support
Grateful parents, led by Ernest Chemwolo, expressed relief and joy, noting the bursaries would enable students to return to school after the mid-term break with fees covered.
AIC Bishop David Kipsoi, speaking at the event, invoked Isaiah 1:17, lauding the county government’s action as aligned with biblical principles of caring for the vulnerable.
“Learn to do good; seek justice, defend the oppressed. This is what this bursary initiative represents,” said Bishop Kipsoi.
The event was attended by Assistant County Commissioner Sarah Jepkemboi, representing the County Commissioner, as well as MCAs, CECs, Chief Officers, directors, and other county staff.
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