By Ann Karanja

For years, vulnerable children in Kiambu County have had to overcome insurmountable challenges in the quest for an education.

However, their plight has significantly changed since the reins of power, in the populous county, were taken over by Governor Kimani Wamatangi administration.

Under the new leadership, the kitty for education bursaries targeting the vulnerable has been increased from KES. 100 million to KES. 500 million.

This development has seen the number of beneficiaries grow in multiples across the 60 wards of Kiambu County, and the amount increased to at least KES. 5,000 for every beneficiary.

In addition, the bursaries are domiciled in the Directorate of Social Services which empowers persons with disabilities (PWDs) giving them priority in the allocation process.

The vision of Governor Wamatangi’s administration is to see that no child is left behind because of financial constraints, which aligns with the United Nations (UN) mandate, and also as contained in his 2022 Campaign Manifesto.

Governor Wamatangi, who grew in a humble background, appreciates that education is the ultimate equalizer, and believes all children must be given a fair chance to get an education.

BURSARY ISSUANCE IN KIAMBU COUNTY

Past mid-March 2025, the bursary exercise had covered 52 wards and benefitted more than 14,000 students from different backgrounds.

“My administration is giving bursary cheques of the least amount, KES. 5,000 for every beneficiary, and are distributed five times in a year. We also have a system for bursary issuance that ensures fairness and equality for all,” said Governor Wamatangi.

In the past, parents queued for hours, struggling to get bursary cheques, which were most times elusive, and those who managed received negligible amounts.

In addition to the general bursaries, the Governor Wamatangi administration provides special full scholarships to students in the most vulnerable conditions. These students, often orphans or from extremely dire conditions receive comprehensive financial support to ensure their educational journey is uninterrupted.

This bursary issuance underscores the Governor’s commitment to building an inclusive and equitable society where education is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status.

“Education is the key to unlocking a brighter future for our county and our nation. Our responsibility is to ensure that every child, no matter their background, has the opportunity to realize their full potential. These bursaries are a step towards making that vision a reality,” said Governor Wamatangi during a bursary issuance exercise.

Chief Officer Vocational Training, Gender & Social Services, Ms Emily Nkoroi has continuously expressed her commitment to ensuring that social status does not hinder students from chasing after their dreams.

Parents and students have expressed their gratitude for the timely support noting that it is a true reflection of leadership that listens and acts in the best interest of her people.

BURSARY ISSUANCE IN KIAMBU COUNTY

With the bursary exercise continuing to roll out in the remaining eight (8) wards, it is expected that even more students will benefit, securing educational opportunities for thousands.