Thousands affected as court order freezes Kwale county bursary program
![Thousands affected as court order freezes Kwale county bursary program Thousands affected as court order freezes Kwale county bursary program](https://citizentv.obs.af-south-1.myhuaweicloud.com/144302/conversions/WhatsApp-Image-2025-02-07-at-16.36.37-og_image.webp)
Speaking at the County Headquarters in Matuga Sub-County, Governor Achani explained that the legal challenge stems from a circular issued by Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o, which restricts counties from disbursing bursary funds.
Speaking at the County Headquarters in Matuga Sub-County, Governor Achani explained that the legal challenge stems from a circular issued by Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o, which restricts counties from disbursing bursary funds.
According to the circular, bursary allocation is not outlined in Schedule Four of the Constitution of Kenya.
Achani noted that despite efforts by the Council of Governors and the national government to seek approval for counties to continue providing bursaries, a legal obstacle remains due to the pending High Court case.
"As much as I wish to support our students, especially those from needy backgrounds, my hands are tied. We must wait for the court’s ruling on February 18, 2025, before charting the way forward," she said.
In early January, the Achani administration had disbursed bursary cheques totaling KSh 94 million to over 2,600 students in national schools. Meanwhile, students from extra-county schools, colleges, and universities had already applied for bursary funds, hoping for assistance.
However, the High Court order has left many in uncertainty, jeopardizing their education.
"We had already requested funds from the Controller of Budget to cater to our children's school fees, but we are now unable to issue bursaries due to the court order," Achani reiterated.
The Elimu ni Sasa program, launched in 2013, has sponsored over 8,842 secondary school students and 6,447 university and college students, benefiting an average of 16,805 students annually.
To curb school dropouts due to financial constraints, Governor Achani had increased the annual bursary allocation from KSh 400 million to KSh 500 million.
The fate of bursary beneficiaries now hinges on the court’s upcoming decision, with many families hoping for a resolution that will allow continued access to education funding.
Want to send us a story? SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp 0743570000 or Submit on Citizen Digital or email wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke
Comments
No comments yet.
Leave a Comment