More than 6,300 students from vulnerable families in Korogocho Ward have benefited from the ward bursary programme over the past four years, Korogocho MCA Absalom Odhiambo, popularly known as Matach, has said.
Speaking on Wednesday, the MCA described the bursary scheme as one of the ward’s key education initiatives, saying it has enabled thousands of learners to remain in school despite financial hardships.
Odhiambo announced that a fresh round of bursary cheques worth KSh2.5 million will be issued next week, with at least 500 students in secondary schools, colleges and universities expected to benefit.
He said the programme has eased the financial burden on parents and guardians while ensuring that deserving students are not forced to abandon their education because of school fees.
“Our goal has always been to ensure that no child misses an education because of financial hardship. Education remains the greatest equaliser, and these bursaries are an investment in the future of our children and the development of Korogocho,” said Matach.
The MCA also criticised previous ward administrations over the management of bursary funds, alleging that some former leaders failed to ensure the allocations reached deserving beneficiaries.
He claimed that some past ward representatives allegedly converted bursary allocations into cash for personal gain instead of issuing cheques directly to students, depriving many needy learners of the opportunity to continue with their education. He did not provide evidence to support the allegations.
Beyond education, Odhiambo said Korogocho Ward has recorded significant development over the last four years through the Ward Development Fund.
Among the projects he highlighted were the construction and rehabilitation of roads, renovation of Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) classrooms, and implementation of other community initiatives aimed at improving public services and living standards.
He reaffirmed his commitment to prioritising education and infrastructure, saying the investments are helping transform the ward and create better opportunities for residents.
The latest bursary cheques are expected to be distributed next week, with the MCA noting that only residents of Korogocho Ward who are registered voters will qualify for the allocation.
