BY PRIMEROSE OMMOTO
Kwale government has disbursed bursaries worth 35 million to 923 form one student joining various national schools.
The area Governor Fatuma Achani said the county is releasing bursaries early for students to report to school on time and start learning.
“It is crucial to release these cheques quickly so that our students can promptly be admitted for early commencement of learning,” she said.
Last week, the county distributed bursaries worth sh100 million to continuing national school students.
According to Achani, over sh147 million has been used for bursaries with more than 4, 560 students having benefited this financial year so far.
Achani advised the students to put more effort into excelling in their studies and become successful in life.
She said the county is heavily investing in education and a lot of money spent to cater for school fees through bursaries.
The governor said the only way the students could reciprocate the favor was by producing good academic grades.
Achani also noted with great concern that some parents indulge in forgery to win the county education scholarship.
“We noticed some irregularities, a section of parents are changing their children’s grades to get the bursaries,” she said.
Achani warned that those who will be found culpable shall face the full force of the law.
She strongly condemned the vice adding that it is illegal and denies other deserving and hardworking students the opportunity to progress in their education.
Nominated MCA Judy Chizi Kengo advised parents to register for identification cards for them to be able to benefit from the bursary programme.
A parent Mohammed Namuna expressed his gratitude for the county education sponsorship program.
“The bursary has made it possible for my son to further his education. Many banks had rejected my loan requests. A huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders.” He said.
Another parent Habiba Mussah suggested that the county should create a way for the youths to give back to the government as a show of thanks.
She said the county should consider employing the youth as volunteers or interns after completing their studies for skills sharpening and exposure.