Gilgil School for the disabled has appealed to the Ministry of Education to increase capitation funds disbursed to the institution to enable it cater for the increasing number of pupils.
The institution Head Teacher Patrick Mwangi said the school which caters for children with varying mental illnesses was seeking for more support to ensure the over 125 learners received quality education as their peers in normal school environments.
Mwangi said the government disbursement of Sh5, 000 per term per student was insufficient as more concentration and care is demanded by the pupils both in and outside the class.
Mwangi said the institution which offers both day and boarding facilities was in dire need of more resources to expand its holding capacity and the feeding programme to cater for the rising population.
The head teacher also urged Nakuru county government through its health docket to provide a specialized nurse to the facility to cater for the medical needs of the pupils.
He at the same time appealed to well-wishers to support the facility and help ease the burden of procuring rising cost of much needed goods, including diapers which some pupils have to use daily.
“Every child has an equal right to access quality education and special needs children are no exception,” said Mwangi.
However, the head teacher was happy to note that the existence of the institution breathed a sigh of relief to parents with special needs children as it helped reduce stigma against the disabled in the society.
According to the Gilgil sub county Quality Assurance Officer Harry Kamau, the government is committed towards supporting special education in the country through provision of special grants which he noted need regular review.
Kamau noted that the government allocation of Sh20, 000 per student annually was inadequate to cater for the rising number of learners and the many concerns raised by the administration.
Speaking during a visit to the facility, Nakuru County Police Commander Beatrice Kiraguri called for integration and inclusivity for people living within disability into the society.
Kiraguri led a delegation of police officers on visit to the facility where they donated foodstuffs and other consumables as part of the National Police Service initiative to enhance cohesion and integration in the society.
By Erastus Gichohi and Calvin Osiemo
