Eighty-seven Grade Four learners from Kaimosi Junior School have visited the Vihiga County offices in Mbale on an educational learning mission aimed at enhancing their understanding of governance, leadership and public service.
The visit provided the pupils with a unique opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the functions and responsibilities of the county government and the various services it delivers to residents across the county.
Upon arrival, the learners were warmly received by officers from the Department of Education, who guided them through different county departments while explaining their respective roles in serving the community.
The pupils were taken through key areas of county administration, enabling them to appreciate how government institutions operate and make decisions that impact citizens.
During the visit, the young learners met Vihiga Governor Dr Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo, who welcomed and commended them for their interest in learning about government and leadership at an early age.
Dr. Ottichilo encouraged the pupils to embrace education, innovation and discipline as they pursue their academic goals.
He urged them to remain focused on their studies and develop values that will enable them to become responsible and productive citizens in the future.
The Governor also engaged the learners in an interactive session, responding to their questions on leadership, county development and public service.
He explained how county resources are utilised to improve key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure and agriculture for the benefit of residents.
The pupils expressed excitement at the opportunity to learn firsthand how county governments function and how leaders make decisions that influence development.
The experience gave them practical insights into governance and strengthened their understanding of concepts they learn in the classroom.
Teachers accompanying the learners lauded the County Government for hosting the educational tour, noting that the visit was both informative and inspiring.
They said the experience exposed the pupils to real-life governance structures and broadened their knowledge beyond classroom learning.
The learners later returned to school with a deeper appreciation of the role of county governments in development and renewed determination to work hard towards achieving their future aspirations.
The educational visit forms part of efforts to promote experiential learning by exposing pupils to public institutions and helping them understand the importance of leadership, citizenship and community service.
By Kelly Barasa
