Uasin Gishu Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii, EGH, on Tuesday, initiated the disbursement of Ksh 165 million in bursary cheques to support 23,330 needy students from across the county. This marks an increase of 46 million compared to the previous financial year.

An additional 5,259 students will also benefit compared to the last financial year, marking the highest amount of bursary disbursement since the inception of the County Government of Uasin Gishu.

Speaking at the two events held in Kamagut and Kapsaos wards in Turbo Sub-County, the Governor stated, “I have fulfilled the promise I made last year to increase the allocation to reach more learners.”

Dr. Bii further emphasized that the beneficiaries include students from secondary schools, technical institutions, colleges, and universities.

The Governor also highlighted that the bursaries will significantly alleviate the financial burden on parents as the funds will cover their children’s tuition fees.

“My administration recognizes the paramount importance of education, and we believe the students will make us proud by achieving their goals. I urge them to work extra hard to realize their dreams,” he said.

The County Boss further underscored that education is a key pillar under his Nguzo Kumi and affirmed his commitment to investing more in the sector.

He also announced plans for the implementation of a school feeding program in ECDEs across the county.

County Executive Committee Member for Education, Vocational Training, Gender, Social Protection, and Gender, Anthony Sitienei, described education as an equalizer in life and urged bursary beneficiaries to make good use of the support to change their livelihoods in the future.

The CECM further encouraged students to enrol in Vocational Training Centers (VTCs).

Chief Officer for Education Marion Birgen, in her speech, thanked Governor Dr. Bii for increasing the bursary allocation, emphasizing its significant impact on benefiting more students in their studies.

“Work harder, be determined, be committed, and pursue your dreams. For now, the burden of fees has been relieved by the Governor,” the CO advised the needy students who benefited.

The Governor will extend the disbursement of bursaries to all 30 wards.

Members of the County Assembly Samuel Sawe (Kamagut), Isaac Samoei (Kapsaos), Chief Officers Elphas Kesio (Agriculture and Agribusiness), Mark Some (Administration and Devolution), Ruth Samoei (Cooperatives and Enterprise Development), Director for Vocational Training Phyllis Lagat, Wilson Sawe (Administration and Planning), Deputy Directors Pius Mosbei (Education), Sub-county Administrator James Rotich, among other county officials, were also present.