Some of the learners in West Pokot during launch of distribution of bursary funds in the regionWest Pokot county has spent about Sh2 billion on bursary
programmes over the last three years, supporting thousands of needy learners.
The bursaries have benefited more than 200,000 learners, with the Governor Simon Kachapin-led administration now rolling out another Sh350 million allocation for this year’s programme.
Kachapin launched the latest bursary disbursement in Kodich ward, saying his administration would continue investing in education to give children from vulnerable families a chance at a better future.
“Education is the only hope for needy children from poor backgrounds and that is why, as a county, we will continue to offer them the support they need to get educated,” he said.
Addressing residents during the launch, the governor noted that many bright students across the county were still struggling to remain in school because of financial hardship.
“That is why the bursary programme was established — to ensure no learner drops out of school because of lack of fees. The county will continue providing bursaries despite the limited resources available,” Kachapin said.
He said the county had steadily increased funding for education to reach more learners each year.
According to county figures, Sh435.5 million was disbursed in bursaries during the 2022-23 financial year, followed by Sh600 million in 2023-24 and Sh500 million in the 2024-25 financial year.
This year, the county has allocated Sh350 million to support more than 40,000 students in secondary schools, universities, colleges, Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions and Vocational Training Centres.
Kachapin said the selection process was designed to ensure vulnerable learners from all wards benefit from the programme.
He challenged beneficiaries to work hard in school and make good use of the opportunity, saying education remains one of the most effective ways of fighting poverty and transforming communities.
The governor added that the county had expanded Early Childhood Development Education centres across the region and was working with stakeholders to improve learning facilities in West Pokot.
“We are determined to expand facilities, improve access through increased enrolment and equip our institutions to ensure learners receive quality education,” he said.
Kachapin later commissioned several development projects in Kodich ward, saying the county government remained committed to taking services closer to residents through investments in roads, water, health and education infrastructure.
He was accompanied by Deputy Governor Robert Komolle, MCAs led by Majority Leader Martin Komongiro, county executives among other officials.
