Education standards in Kirinyaga Central is set for a major boost after the area Member of Parliament, Gachoki Gitari, officially handed over a modern science laboratory to Waigiri Comprehensive School.
The Sh4 million project, financed through the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), will primarily benefit Junior Secondary School (JSS) learners, especially Grade 9 students who are preparing for their first national examinations.
Gitari said the new facility will provide learners with a proper space for scientific experiments and research, which had been a major challenge for the institution.
“For a long time, our children have been disadvantaged because they were forced to conduct science lessons in ordinary classrooms. With this modern laboratory, Waigiri Comprehensive learners will have the same opportunities as those in well-established schools. This is how NG-CDF continues to transform lives, and that is why we, as Members of Parliament, are committed to protecting it,” Gitari said.
He further cautioned that any calls to abolish the NG-CDF were misguided, noting that the fund had been instrumental in transforming education and community development across the country.
“Anyone proposing the removal of NG-CDF might not be aware of the effects it would have on millions of learners and ordinary Kenyans. Without this fund, projects like this laboratory would never have been possible,” he said.
The legislator pointed out that through NG-CDF, his office has initiated and completed numerous projects ranging from classrooms, laboratories, water projects, and road infrastructure. He emphasised that the projects are implemented based on the needs of residents and promised to remain responsive to community requests.
School Principal Mrs Lucy wachira lauded the project, describing it as a game-changer for both learners and teachers.
“Science requires practical exposure, but for years we were forced to convert one of the classrooms into a makeshift laboratory. This facility will give our students a good working environment, boost their confidence, and improve their performance. We are now better prepared to handle the Grade 9 exams and beyond,” she said.
The principal added that the school, which has an enrolment of over 1,000 learners, had long been in need of such an investment to match the growing population.
Florence Wangui, one of the parents, said the laboratory would inspire students and motivate teachers to deliver quality learning.
“This is a milestone for Waigiri Comprehensive School and a big relief for parents. We are grateful to the MP for listening to our requests, and we urge him to continue supporting education because it is the best inheritance for our children,” she said.
Gitari reiterated his commitment to continue prioritising education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment projects, saying these sectors form the backbone of development in Kirinyaga Central.
“As I promised during my campaigns, I will continue to ensure that the wishes of Kirinyaga residents are met. Our youth must have opportunities, our learners must have facilities, and our farmers must have roads to deliver their produce to markets. That is my contract with the people,” said the MP.
By David Wandeto
