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Education took center stage as Governor Wavinya Ndeti emphasized its crucial role in shaping Machakos’ future during the county’s inaugural Education Prize Giving Day at Kenyatta Stadium. Marking a significant milestone since devolution, the governor reaffirmed her steadfast commitment to education, declaring it as “not just a stepping stone, but the very essence of life.”
Speaking before a distinguished audience that included Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi, officials from the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), and representatives from KUPPET, KNUT, KEPSHA, and KESSHA, Governor Ndeti pledged to continue prioritizing the education sector. Her administration remains dedicated to ensuring that every child in Machakos has access to quality learning opportunities.
Highlighting progress, she pointed to major strides in education infrastructure, particularly in early childhood development. “We have constructed 24 new ECDE centers and furnished them with modern facilities, with plans to supply additional furniture soon,” she announced.
She also celebrated the success of the county’s school feeding program, which has driven ECDE enrollment up from 37,000 to 47,000, ensuring children receive the necessary nutrition to excel academically. To address long-standing water challenges, her administration has drilled boreholes and installed water tanks in schools, easing the burden on students and educators alike.
Governor Ndeti’s support for learners extends beyond infrastructure improvements. She has significantly increased bursary allocations, raising the funding from Ksh 80 million in 2022/2023 to Ksh 120 million for the current and upcoming financial years. “No child in Machakos should be deprived of an education due to financial hardship,” she stressed. Her administration has also awarded full scholarships to more than 300 needy students from all 40 wards, covering their secondary school expenses.
In a personal demonstration of commitment, the governor disclosed that she has been personally financing the education of over 500 students, driven by her unwavering belief that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty.
Recognizing the evolving needs of the youth, Governor Ndeti has also championed technical and vocational training. Through the Machakos Youth Service, over 1,000 young individuals are currently being trained in various technical fields, enhancing their employability and economic independence. “Education should extend beyond classrooms; it must empower our youth with practical skills for financial sustainability,” she noted. Calling for unity among parents, teachers, and stakeholders, she urged a collective effort to ensure no student is left behind due to socio-economic barriers.
In a heartfelt conclusion, Governor Ndeti reaffirmed that education is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and vowed to keep supporting educators and students across the county. “Had my parents not invested in my education, I wouldn’t be standing before you as your governor,” she said passionately. Under her leadership, Machakos is making strides toward becoming a model county where education serves as the bedrock for sustainable development and prosperity. Through bold initiatives and unwavering dedication, she is shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
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