Murang'a County unveils Inua Masomo programme to enhance access to education

Under the programme, the county will fully cover Term 1 school fees for the top 10 students in Forms 2, 3, and 4 across all Day Secondary Schools within the county. Additionally, the programme will sustain its support each term, ensuring that these top-performing students remain in school and are motivated to excel academically.

Speaking during the launch on Sunday, Murang'a Governor Irungu Kanga'ta said the initiative will benefit 8,000 students studying in the 256 day schools in the county. 

“The top 10 students will be picked each term, thus encouraging competition among students every term. This approach enhances transition rates and boosts academic performance in day schools. It also takes the power of giving bursaries away from government and back to learners,” said Kang'ata. 

The Inua Masomo programme also strengthens the local economy by retaining education funds within the county and eliminates corruption and bias by using an objective selection process. There are no vetting committees, ensuring that only deserving students benefit from the bursaries.

During the event held in Kiriani Girls, leaders from Meru and Kiambu lauded the initiative and pledged to work with the governor to help roll out the programme in their regions. 

Meru County Assembly Leader of Minority Mwendwa Ithili lauded Inua Masomo and pledged to push for implementation of a programme to support day schools. 

"I have listened to stories of students in day schools who did well and they overcame a lot of adversity. Kangáta has shown the way and we will follow” said Ithili. 

The Inua Masomo initiative complements the county's Nyota Zetu Programme, which continues to provide bursaries to students in boarding schools, reducing the financial burden of high school fees for parents. The county also supports university students in conjuction with the Murang'a Budget and Economic Council, a think-tank bring together top economic and academia personnel from Murang'a.