By Peter Ochieng
The county government of Kisumu has disbursed Sh1,032,093,703 in scholarships and bursaries since 2017.
In the process, thousands of needy but bright students have been able to access secondary school education, along the years.
Speaking on Monday on behalf of governor Anyang’ Nyong’o during the launch of the county bursaries and scholarships for the 2023/2024 financial year at Mama Grace Onyango social Centre, Kisumu Deputy Governor (DG) Mathew Owili said over 78,000 students have benefited from the scheme, so far.
“Since 2017, we have issued Sh308,245,862 as scholarships to 2,310 students and Sh727,847,841 as bursaries to over 78,572 successful applicants. This totals to Sh1,032,092,703 the county government has disbursed in scholarships and bursaries,” stated Owili.
Today, Nyong’o’s administration issued out a cheque worth Sh51,250,000, which will benefit some 1,050 learners in various schools.
The DG said 350 students remain on the waiting list, adding that they will be considered during upcoming allocations.
The number of those seeking financial support for school fees, the DG said is overwhelming, urging well wishers and partners to step in and bridge the gap.
“It is important to note that the number of learners seeking scholarships and bursaries is overwhelming. More partners should come on board to reduce the burden on the county kitty. We are grateful to the banks and NGOs that have so far come on board.”
Equity, KCB, Family and Shinning Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) are some of the banks and NGOs that support bright students from needy family backgrounds.
He called on youth to enroll in Vocational Training Centres near them, adding that the the devolved unit guarantees partial payment of applicable fees of Sh15,000.
Owili who has already declared his bid for the 2027 gubernatorial contest, wants beneficiaries to work hard and support others in the future.
“If you got 350 marks and above in KCPE, you are an A class material. Have a dream, know what you want to become and work towards achieving that dream. We believe in all of you,” he said.
“Take time to participate in co-curriculum activities,” he added.
The DG was accompanied by John Awiti, the Kisumu County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, Technical Training, Innovation and Social Services, John Awiti.
Awiti said they wire funds direct to school accounts, but challenges arise when the institutions fail to acknowledge receiving the money
“We do not pay the money via cheques. The money is wired directly to schools. Its therefore a challenge when schools do not acknowledge receiving the money. Receipts must be issued out for purposes of accountability.”