In an effort to address regular power outages witnessed by most schools in Busia, Osiya Foundation, under Principal Administrative Secretary Arthur Osiya, has launched a solar energy lighting programme to offer an alternative solution and ensure learning goes on uninterrupted in most public primary schools.
The schools’ heads led by Ronald Orodi of Amagoro primary school applauded the initiative noting that it would give learners adequate time to cover the syllabus on time besides cutting on the huge electricity bills.
Orodi thanked Mr. Osiya for the donation, noting that it would go a long way in eliminating the rampant power outages.
“The constant power outages will now be a thing of the past as teaching will not be interrupted, especially computer classes,” he said, adding that it would drastically cut on electricity costs, urging other leaders to emulate that magnificent feat that would see learners’ education go uninterrupted.
He exuded confidence that the school would perform well in this year’s inaugural Kenya Junior School Assessment (KJSEA) exams later in the year.
The sentiments were echoed by parents led by Hellen Etyang and Martin Osikuku who noted that most schools have been struggling with huge electricity bills.
“With solar power, things will be better. The electricity bill is very high, and with minimum outages, it will help boost education standards.
Osia Foundation coordinator Milton Maloba added that the main purpose of the project is to ensure security of learners and uninterrupted sessions in schools.
According to Maloba, the Osiya solar power project started with three schools, adding that 10 more schools would benefit from the venture bringing total number to 13.
Among the recipients of the pilot project include Adanya Primary and Secondary Schools, Changara, Kolanya Boys and Amagoro Primary Schools in Teso North Sub County.
Others are Kocheck Primary in Teso Central, Kajoro in Nambale, Ng’elechom in Teso South, and Esirisia in Matayos, adding that the programme would from next week be extended to schools in remaining subcounties of Bunyala, Samia and Butula.
An ICT teacher Mr. Ephraim Okwara said the 1600 Watts to be generated from the four panels would help in boosting the school’s education standards.
“During bad weather, many disadvantages are associated with electricity supply. The use of green energy is the way to go. Solar power has a lifespan of 25 years,” he said, urging Kenyans to embrace it.
By Absalom Namwalo
