Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, with a high-powered
delegation of development partners, during the launch of learner workbooks and the inauguration of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency[TIKA] new
classrooms.
Leaners at Hodhan Primary School in Wajir.
Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi and the delegation interact with
learners at Hodhan Primary School.
Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi has underscored the importance of strong collaboration between the county government and development partners in transforming the education sector and securing a brighter future for children in the region.
Speaking on Thursday at Hodhan Primary School in Wajir town, Abdullahi hosted a high-level delegation during the official launch of new learner workbooks and the inauguration of newly constructed classrooms funded by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).
The event brought together key stakeholders, including the Deputy Ambassador of the United Kingdom, TIKA Country Director Yasemin Cansuz Kurt, representatives from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), officials from the Ministry of Education, development partners, teachers, ECDE instructors, parents, and learners.
Abdullahi said education in Wajir continues to face challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, teacher shortages, and limited access to learning materials—issues that, he emphasised, require collective effort.
“We all recognise the challenges we face, which we cannot tackle alone due to limited resources,” he said.
“Thanks to the cooperation and support of our partners, we have been able to overcome many of them—and today is proof of that.”
Abdullahi, who also chairs the Council of Governors, stressed that no single entity can resolve education challenges on its own. He called for aligned efforts, shared resources, and a united vision to achieve meaningful results.
“The books and classrooms we’re launching today are more than just infrastructure. They symbolise opportunity, dignity, and a brighter future for our young learners,” he added. “To our partners, your investment, commitment, and belief in our children is making a real difference. We don’t take this for granted.”
Highlighting the county’s progress, Abdullahi noted that his administration has built 368 ECDE centers currently serving 28,686 learners and employing 543 trained ECDE teachers.
He announced plans to recruit 120 more teachers this year, including 20 for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
In addition, the county is constructing 160 classrooms and 24 twin toilets across its six sub-counties.
Despite the progress, Abdullahi acknowledged persistent gaps—particularly poor infrastructure in remote schools and lack of clean water, which hampers both learning and hygiene.
“Education is not merely a pathway to personal development. It is the foundation for thriving communities, strong economies, and a just society,” he said.
“In Wajir, we are committed to ensuring every child, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to quality education. This is not just a goal—it is a moral obligation.”
TIKA Country Director Yasemin Cansuz Kurt reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Kenya and supporting inclusive development in regions like Wajir.
“We are proud to be part of this effort and to continue strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation,” she said.
