Uasin Gishu Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim on Friday presided over the launch of the Uasin Gishu Tujiajiri KCB Scholarship Programme for 2026.

A total of 25 students drawn from across the county will benefit from the initiative, which will see their training fully funded through a partnership between the County Government of Uasin Gishu and the KCB Foundation.

Speaking during the launch held at the County Headquarters in Eldoret, Governor Bii revealed that the county had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the KCB Foundation to support skills development and youth empowerment.

“Under the Tujiajiri Programme, beneficiaries will undergo tailored six- and nine-month training courses and receive toolkits upon graduation, empowering them to secure their future,” said the Governor.

Under the partnership, the county government has allocated KSh 25 million for the programme, with the KCB Foundation committing an equal amount.

Governor Bii also outlined plans to strengthen Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) through the provision of modern training equipment and the construction of 90 Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres across the county. Education is the fifth pillar of Dr Bii’s governance blueprint.

Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea challenged the programme beneficiaries to remain focused and fully utilise the opportunity to improve their livelihoods. He also lauded Governor Bii for prioritising investment in the education sector.“We appreciate you, Governor, for your continued support to the needy, doubling bursaries, employing ECDE teachers and investing in education infrastructure,” Kapkea said.

Similar sentiments were echoed by KCB Foundation Managing Director Mendi Njonjo, who commended the county for implementing transformative initiatives aimed at improving basic education and vocational training.Mendi noted that the KCB Tujiajiri Programme offers learners a chance to acquire practical skills that will enable them to earn a sustainable living.

Some of the scholarship slots have been reserved for persons with disabilities, vulnerable members of society and teen mothers.County Executive Committee Member for Education and Vocational Training, Eng. Lucy Ng’endo, said the county has allocated adequate resources to support VTCs and thanked KCB Foundation for partnering with the county to empower the youth.

The event was also attended by County Secretary Phillip Melly; Education Chief Officer Eunice Suter; and County Assembly Education Committee Chairperson Thomas Yego, all of whom urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity to uplift their lives and those of their families.

Other leaders present included County Executive Committee Members Dr. Kotut Kemboi (Agriculture), Micah Rogony (Finance), Abraham Serem (Roads), and Robert Kemei (Youth); County Assembly Majority Leader Hon. Julius Sang; Nominated MCA representing persons with disabilities Hon. Regina Chumba; and Wesley Korir, Founder of Transcend Talent Academy.

Also in attendance were Chief Officers Eliud Kipkorir (Finance) and Marion Birgen (Gender and Social Protection); Directors Peter Ruto (Education), Phyllis Lagat (Vocational Training) and Wilson Sawe (Administration); Deputy Directors Steve Kemoi (Vocational Training), Julius Tanui (Resource Mobilisation) and Daniel Boit (Youth Affairs), among other county officials.