Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has made a resounding pledge to continue her administration’s investment in the education sector, highlighting the critical role education plays in shaping the future of the region. Speaking at a prize-giving ceremony at Kwale High School in Matuga Sub-County on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, Governor Achani reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that every child in Kwale County receives quality education.
Governor Achani emphasized that her administration allocated Ksh500 million for bursaries and scholarships in the last financial year to support underprivileged children. Out of this substantial budget, Ksh455 million has already been disbursed to various institutions, with national school students receiving a total of Ksh190 million. Kwale High School alone benefited from Ksh36 million, which supported 831 students at the institution.
“The future of our children is paramount, and we are dedicated to providing them with the resources they need to succeed academically,” said Governor Achani. Her administration’s dedication to education is not just about financial support; it also involves addressing educational disparities and creating opportunities for all students, regardless of their socio-economic backgrounds. This comprehensive approach includes improving school infrastructure, providing educational materials, and enhancing teacher training in collaboration with the national government.
Governor Achani’s focus on education aligns with her broader vision for development and economic growth in Kwale. She underscored the importance of education as a cornerstone for sustainable development, stressing that her administration is committed to ensuring that educational programs reach even the most remote areas of the county. “I will also work closely with the national government to ensure our programs reach even those in the most remote areas,” she added.
The Teacher Service Commission (TSC) Chairman, Jamleck Muturi, also spoke at the ceremony, encouraging students to view success as a product of hard work, resilience, adaptability, and a continuous quest for knowledge. He urged students to embrace challenges and see setbacks as opportunities for growth. “Every obstacle you encounter is a chance to learn and improve. The ability to adapt and persevere through difficulties will set you apart and pave the way for your future successes,” said Muturi.
Kwale High School Principal Michael Mutua expressed profound gratitude to Governor Achani for her unwavering support of education. He praised the governor’s dedication to advancing education through initiatives like the Elimu Ni Sasa bursary program, which has had a significant impact on the institution and the wider community. “We deeply appreciate the Governor’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and supporting our institution in this significant way,” he said.
Kwale High School has achieved notable academic success, with last year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) results showcasing the students’ hard work and the school’s supportive environment. Three students achieved straight A’s, 24 earned A-, 87 secured B+, 114 received B, 88 obtained B-, 27 achieved C+, and 3 scored C. The school’s mean score improved from 8.395 (B-) in the previous year to 8.979 (B plain).
Governor Achani’s initiatives are creating a ripple effect, transforming the educational landscape in Kwale County. By investing in education, she is not only shaping the future of individual students but also paving the way for the county’s long-term development and economic prosperity. The governor’s commitment to education stands as a testament to her administration’s dedication to creating a brighter, more equitable future for all children in Kwale.