The Free Day Secondary Schools Initiative in Kiambu Constituency has continued to gain momentum, with local leaders reaffirming their commitment to ensuring that no child misses out on secondary education due to financial hardship.
Speaking during an education stakeholders’ forum, area Member of Parliament Machua Waithaka emphasized that education remains the greatest equalizer and that every child, regardless of background, deserves an opportunity to pursue their dreams. He urged chiefs, parents, guardians, and community leaders to work collaboratively to identify any learner who may be out of school due to financial challenges and ensure they are enrolled and retained in nearby secondary institutions.
Waithaka noted that the constituency bursary programme has fully catered for tuition and remedial fees for students in all day secondary schools within Kiambu Constituency.
“Students from Form One to Form Four are now learning without paying a single shilling. The bursary has taken care of tuition and remedial work. The work of the students is simply to come to school and study,” he said.
Local administrators have been directed to intensify door‑to‑door verification to ensure that no child remains at home due to lack of school fees. Parents have also been encouraged to report any cases of learners who may have dropped out or failed to transition to secondary school for various reasons in order to get assistance.
Education officials in the constituency have welcomed the initiative, noting that it has significantly boosted enrolment and reduced absenteeism. Teachers report that the removal of financial barriers has allowed learners to focus fully on their studies, improving classroom participation and academic performance.
The MP reiterated that the programme is part of a broader effort to uplift the community through education, adding that empowering young people with knowledge and skills is key to securing a brighter future for the constituency.
“Yangu Ni Kazi Tu,” he affirmed, pledging continued support for initiatives that promote equal access to education.
by Gideon Wekesa and Grace Naishoo
