The ACK Diocese of Nambale has launched an education foundation aimed at supporting bright but needy students.
The initiative seeks to help learners from vulnerable families access quality education and achieve their dreams.
Speaking during the launch at the diocesan headquarters in Nambale, the Principal Secretary for Economic Planning, Bonface Makokha, lauded the initiative, describing education as a key pillar in community and church development.
“This is a major milestone towards building a better community and a stronger church. Investing in the education of our children has a significant impact on the country’s economy, community stability, and the growth of the church. Education is an equalizer, and giving opportunities to children from vulnerable families is a great empowerment initiative,” he said.
Makokha urged members of the community and other stakeholders to support the foundation to ensure its sustainability.
“This foundation can only succeed if all of us come together and contribute resources to support our children’s education. It is the first initiative of its kind in our churches, and we must ensure it has adequate resources,” he added.
The PS also lauded the role of the NG-CDF in supporting education, noting that the government had cleared Sh17 billion in arrears to ensure smooth disbursement of funds.
“NG-CDF has been a game changer in the education sector. Nearly 48 percent of the funds are spent on bursaries, meaning delays greatly affect learners. So far, we have disbursed Sh5.3 billion for May to support development projects and education,” he said.
Makokha further stressed the need for school buses to improve transportation for learners and surrounding communities.
“Our schools need buses to support academic trips and competitions. Before the end of this financial year, six schools from the county will receive school buses,” he said.
Nambale ACK Bishop Isaiah Obuya said the foundation was inspired by the growing number of children unable to access education due to lack of school fees.
“We want to address the challenges faced by children from vulnerable families who struggle to raise school fees. Many cases brought to my attention involve children missing education because of financial difficulties, and this inspired the diocese to establish the foundation,” he said.
Bishop Obuya acknowledged government support through capitation and NG-CDF but noted that more interventions was needed.
“The church’s responsibility is not only preaching but also transforming lives. Through this education foundation, we aim to empower children, strengthen the community, and build a better country,” he added.
He assured supporters that the foundation would operate transparently and appealed for continued support to ensure its sustainability.
The bishop said the foundation would initially focus on supporting secondary and tertiary education without discrimination against any needy learner.
Busia Governor Paul Otuoma pledged support for the initiative, saying it would help improve access to education for disadvantaged children.
“This initiative will help many children who are unable to pay school fees. It also shows that places of worship play an important role in shaping a better future for our children and the country,” he said.
Governor Otuoma further noted that President William Ruto had pledged continued support for the foundation to ensure it achieves its mission of helping children access education.
by Salome Alwanda and Rodgers Omondi
