Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura during the 80th anniversary of Thika School for the Visually Impaired on June 13, 2026/X
The government has pledged to strengthen support for learners with disabilities and improve infrastructure in special needs institutions as Thika School for the Visually Impaired celebrated its 80th anniversary on Saturday.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said the government remains committed to promoting access, inclusion and quality education for all learners, particularly those with disabilities.
Speaking during the school's 80th anniversary celebrations, which coincided with the commemoration of International Albinism Awareness Day, Ogamba hailed the institution for transforming the lives of thousands of learners with visual impairment over the past eight decades.
The event was held under the theme "Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones" and also marked the 20th anniversary of the Albinism Society of Kenya.
"Reaching eighty years is a significant milestone and a testament to visionary leadership, dedication and an unwavering commitment to serving learners with visual impairment," Ogamba said.
The CS described the school's journey as a remarkable story of faith, compassion and transformation, noting that it has grown from humble beginnings into a centre of excellence serving learners from across Kenya and beyond.
He acknowledged the challenges facing the institution, including increasing enrolment, pressure on existing facilities and the high cost of specialised instructional materials and equipment.
"As a Government, we are committed to promoting access, inclusion and quality in our education system. We will therefore support this institution in improving infrastructure and addressing other resource requirements to achieve the institution's full potential," Ogamba said.
He added that the government would work to ensure learners have access to safe, accessible and conducive learning environments.
The CS also paid tribute to the Albinism Society of Kenya for its two decades of advocacy and public awareness efforts aimed at promoting inclusion and protecting the rights of persons with albinism.
"Over the years, the Society has played a critical role in promoting inclusion, combating discrimination, advancing access to education and healthcare and defending the rights and dignity of persons with albinism," he said.
Ogamba said the theme of this year's celebrations sends a powerful message against discrimination and harmful stereotypes.
"It challenges us to reject stereotypes and harmful misconceptions while embracing diversity, equality and inclusion," he said.
He acknowledged that despite progress made over the years, persons with albinism continue to face stigma, discrimination, social exclusion and health-related challenges.
The CS reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups through improved access to education, healthcare and awareness programmes.
Ogamba further defended the Competency-Based Education system, saying it recognises the diverse abilities, talents and aspirations of learners and seeks to provide opportunities for every child to succeed according to their strengths.
He noted that institutions such as Thika School for the Visually Impaired demonstrate the value of inclusive education by enabling learners to thrive when given the right support and opportunities.
The CS also expressed concern over recent incidents of unrest in schools, warning that destruction of property and disruption of learning undermine investments made by parents, communities and government.
"Schools must remain places of learning, character formation and personal growth," he said, urging parents, teachers, religious leaders and government agencies to work together in instilling positive values among learners.
He called on Kenyans to renew their commitment to building an education system and society that leaves no one behind, emphasizing dignity, equality and inclusion for all.
