More than 25 public schools in Kirinyaga Central Constituency are set to benefit from cabro paving of their compounds by December this year under an ambitious infrastructure improvement programme aimed at creating cleaner, safer and more conducive learning environments.
The project, funded through the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), is part of a broader initiative to modernise public schools while creating employment opportunities for local youth.
Kirinyaga Central Member of Parliament Gachoki Gitari said the constituency has identified 36 schools for the programme, with the first phase targeting completion of 25 institutions before the end of the year.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the ongoing Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Kerugoya Campus construction project, Gitari said the initiative will address long-standing challenges associated with dusty and muddy school compounds.
He noted that many schools have struggled with poor ground conditions that disrupt learning activities, especially during rainy seasons when compounds become muddy and inaccessible.
The cabro installation, he said, will significantly improve accessibility within school compounds, enhance cleanliness, reduce soil erosion and flooding, and provide a more organised and visually appealing learning environment.
“Replacing dusty and muddy compounds with cabro paving will create a safer and more comfortable environment for learners and teachers. It will also improve the general outlook of our schools,” said Gitari.
Beyond improving infrastructure, the project has been designed to empower young people by integrating skills training and employment opportunities.
Gitari revealed that the NG-CDF office has partnered with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to offer short courses in cabro installation and masonry to youth from across the constituency.
According to the MP, trainees who successfully complete the programme will be prioritised for employment in the ongoing cabro projects, allowing them to earn an income while gaining practical experience.
He added that outstanding trainees will also be considered for future constituency projects, including the construction of school hostels and other public infrastructure.
“The objective is not only to improve our schools but also to equip our youth with practical skills that will enable them to secure employment even after these projects are completed,” he said.
Gitari emphasised that the programme reflects a deliberate effort to ensure development projects generate direct economic benefits for local communities rather than relying solely on external contractors.
In addition to the cabro paving initiative, the MP highlighted several education projects implemented through NG-CDF to enhance learning conditions across Kirinyaga Central.
He said 29 out of the 36 public schools in the constituency have already been fitted with modern roofing, replacing old and leaking structures and significantly improving safety and comfort for learners.
The constituency has also constructed 23 modern ablution blocks in schools that previously faced serious sanitation challenges, greatly improving hygiene and providing a more dignified environment for students.
Gitari further noted that investments have been made in school feeding infrastructure, with renovation of the dining hall at Kiandieri Secondary School and construction of new dining facilities at Kiamurunga and Kamuiru secondary schools.
He added that construction of another dining hall at Kiringo Secondary School is currently underway.
To support the implementation of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum, the constituency has established five modern science laboratories in selected primary schools, enabling learners to engage in practical science lessons at an early stage.
The MP also said two boreholes have been drilled at Kerugoya Boys High School and Kirinyaga Central Vocational Training Centre in Ngungu, ensuring a reliable supply of clean water for students and staff.
Beyond the education sector, Gitari said the constituency is implementing 28 rural electrification projects aimed at increasing access to electricity for households, schools and trading centres.
He expressed confidence that the projects will boost electricity connectivity, stimulate business growth, improve security and support learning through reliable power supply.
Gitari reaffirmed his commitment to advancing education through sustained investment in school infrastructure and youth empowerment initiatives.
He urged leaders to prioritise development over politics, noting that such programmes have a direct impact on improving livelihoods.
The MP added that he will continue supporting the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which seeks to spur economic growth and create opportunities for wananchi.
