Keynan announces Sh41m bursary for students in Eldas

Beneficiaries of the fund are drawn from secondary schools, universities and colleges.

In Summary
  • Keynan said the bursary fund demonstrates his commitment to education.
  • Parents, students and education stakeholders expressed gratitude for the fund, which they believe will have a transformative impact.
Eldas MP Adan Keynan poses with some of the beneficiaries of Sh41 million bursary for secondary school, university and college students in the constituency on April 29, 2024.
Eldas MP Adan Keynan poses with some of the beneficiaries of Sh41 million bursary for secondary school, university and college students in the constituency on April 29, 2024.
Image: HANDOUT

Eldas MP Adan Keynan has announced Sh41 million bursary for secondary school, university and college students in the constituency.

While making public the allocation, Keynan said the bursary is aimed at fostering education accessibility and equity.

He said the initiative is designed to support investment in the future of the constituency's youth.

Keynan noted that at the heart of the initiative is a commitment to provide financial assistance to deserving students, irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds.

Speaking at the launch, the lawmaker underscored the importance of education as a catalyst for socio-economic development and empowerment.

"One of the distinguishing features of the bursary fund is its inclusivity, with special provisions set aside for students from marginalised communities and those facing financial hardship," he said.

"This commitment to equity ensures that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to access education and unlock their full potential.” 

The launch of the bursary fund was met with resounding approval from the local community, who recognised it as a significant step towards empowering the next generation.

Parents, students and education stakeholders expressed gratitude for the fund, which they believe will have a transformative impact on the educational landscape of Eldas.

Keynan said the bursary fund demonstrates his commitment to education.

In January, education stakeholders urged Members of Parliament to prudently use the National Government-Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) kitty.

They said MPs should stop giving bursaries to PhD and Masters students.

According to Dr Vincent Gaitho, the Kenya National Association of Private Universities secretary general, the NG-CDF kitty should be used to build infrastructure for basic education and for development projects in constituencies instead of funding bursaries for postgraduate students in local and foreign universities.

Gaitho recommended that a bill be introduced in Parliament to authorise bursary funds to become revolving funds.

“Those who benefit from bursaries should pay back. Let’s make it sustainable through a revolving fund since we are developing human capital that eventually should become useful to the country,” he added.

Maliba Arnold Nyajayi, the Strategic Communication adviser in the UDA secretary general's office said it's unfair for someone studying for a Master’s degree to get CDF funding.

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