Bursary allocation raised to Sh240m as county moves to improve literacy levels

Kisii Governor James Ongwae, third left and Deputy Governor Joash Maangi, far left during the launch of the Kisii County Bursary Fund at Gusii Stadium on 12.7.2016. The Sh240 million will be released to beneficiaries through their respective schools. (Photo Eric Abuga/Standard)

KISII county government has increased its bursary fund to Sh240 million this financial year.

The money is an increase from the Sh135 million allocated in the 2015/2016 financial year.

Governor James Ongwae said the move is intended to enhance transition rates and retention of students in schools while enhancing access to education.

Ongwae who spoke yesterday while distributing cheques to the students said a needs assessment in schools by the county government revealed that the number of needy students is on the rise.

"There are both financial and infrastructural challenges that are burdening parents and are impacting negatively on the quality of education offered," said the governor.

Each ward is expected to get Sh5 million.

"We would have wished to release the money early but there were delays due to reasons beyond our control. Needy students lose valuable time whenever they are sent away because of fees and other levies," said Ongwae.