In yet another key milestone that goes towards the implementation of his Nguzo Kumi Manifesto, Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim on Thursday flagged off the distribution of teaching and learning materials to all public Early Childhood Development (ECDE) centres across the country.

The materials were procured at Ksh 22 million in a move that seeks to lay a proper and quality foundation, and good environment for learners at the ECDE centres.

Speaking during the event held at the TAC centre, the Governor affirmed his commitment to ensuring ECDE learners get the best foundation in Education.

“We’re providing the foundation that this children will stand on. We’re securing the future for our children and I’m seeing a powerful human resource behind it,” the Governor said.

He noted that the distribution of the teaching-learning materials is part of his ongoing efforts to invest heavily in the ECDE sector as outlined in the Pillar Number 5 of his Nguzo Kumi Manifesto.

He noted that he has already employed 1370 ECDE teachers and introduced the school milk Program which has had a positive impact so far.

The school milk Program was launched in May 2023 and has since seen an increase in students enrolled by over 3,000 as well as enhanced nutrition and pupil retention.

Nominated Member of Parliament, Joseph Wainaina, who also attended the event thanked Governor Bii for his serious investment in the young in society.

He said it is only education that can help address many challenges that families are facing.

“If you see a leader taking care of children, they know he has good plans for the society. There’s nowhere a person can go without education,” Wainaina said.

Education County Executive, Janeth Kosgei, who spoke at the event thanked the Governor for his commitment to improving early child education.

She said the investment had already been making a positive impact on the sector. “The milk Program for example has improved nutrition among learners and reduced cases of pupils getting sick,” the CECM said.

Similar sentiments were shared by County Secretary Edwin Bett and Education Chief Officer, Marion Birgen.

“This is a noble initiative that will help shape the future leaders who are now in ECDEs,” said CS Bett.

“One book, one pencil will shape the future of these children in a big way,” added CO Birgen.

The teaching and learning will be distributed to all the 673 ECDEs across the 30 wards of Uasin Gishu County.

County Executive for Roads, Eng. Joseph Lagat, Chief Officer for Lands, Nathan Korir, Directors Dr. Shadrack Morogo (Education) and Phyllis Lagat (Vocational Training) were among several other county officials present.