Thousands of needy students in Kiambu County will begin the new school term with financial relief following the official launch of bursary distribution by Governor Kimani Wamatangi.

The exercise, which kicked off over the weekend in Ndeiya Ward, will see day scholars receive KSh 5,000 while boarders in secondary schools benefit from KSh 10,000. The timely intervention ensures that students can report back to school without interruptions due to lack of fees.

Increased Funding for Education Support

The bursary allocation has been significantly increased from KSh 500 million to KSh 750 million for the 2025/2026 financial year. Governor Wamatangi emphasized that the enhanced fund will broaden coverage and increase the amounts allocated to individual students.

“By expanding the bursary fund, my administration aims to increase the number of beneficiaries and enhance the amount allocated to each student. This substantial increment underscores our commitment to making education accessible to all children in Kiambu County,” he said.

Transparent and Sustained Assistance

Unlike in previous years when students received one-off support, the revamped bursary program will now provide assistance multiple times within the academic year. This structure is designed to sustain learners throughout their schooling period.

Deputy Governor Rosemary Kirika emphasized the county’s commitment to transparency:
“I urge members of the bursary committee to maintain transparency and efficiency in the distribution process. As Kiambu County leadership, we are committed to ensuring that the bursaries reach genuine beneficiaries,” she stated.

To ensure fairness, ward education committees and local administrators have been tasked with vetting applicants. Strict measures have been put in place to prevent favoritism and misuse of funds.

Parents Welcome the Initiative

Parents expressed gratitude for the timely support. Mary Wanjiku, a mother from Limuru, whose daughter received KSh 8,000, described the bursary as a lifeline.

“This support has come at the right time when we were struggling to raise school fees. My daughter can now continue her education without interruption,” she said.

Impact on Students Across 60 Wards

The bursary program, which will cover all 60 wards, is expected to benefit over 38,000 students. Governor Wamatangi highlighted that this effort would reduce school dropouts, promote equal opportunities, and foster academic excellence in Kiambu County.

By timing the distribution just before schools reopen, the county has ensured that beneficiaries can report to school promptly, avoiding delays and stress for both learners and parents.