By OSINDE OBARE
KENYA: Trans-Nzoia Governor Patrick Khaemba came face to face with reality of dilapidated infrastructure in the county’s schools.
He saw this when he sheltered himself from heavy rains inside a classroom with a leaking roof.
The governor had gone to donate shoes to pupils of Shimo La Tewa Primary School within Kitale town.
On noticing the leaking roof, Khaemba attempted to move to a better place but the rain swept through the open windows.
Khaemba termed the condition of the infrastructure as unfortunate saying the pupils were learning under difficulties which compromised the education standards.
“It is unbelievable that pupils are being subjected to this unfriendly environment. The roofs are dilapidated and leaking. It is difficult to learn under such an environment,” Khaemba lamented.
The governor urged the Government to set aside more funds towards improving educational infrastructure in the county.
“We are not going to realise the objectives of Free Primary Education if infrastructure in our schools is in a bad state and not conducive for students,” he said.
Jigger-infested
The school’s management told Khaemba that they are forced to suspend lessons whenever there is heavy downpour.
At the same time, the governor said his office has partnered with Kenya Red Cross Society to launch an anti-jigger campaign in the county to rescue infested pupils.
He said that 10,000 pair of shoes had been purchased for distribution to 18 schools in the county.
Khaemba accompanied by Red Cross official Francis Wangila who also distributed shoes.
“We are targeting schools with pupils vulnerable to jiggers. We want to ensure the health of the pupils is improved in a bid to improve their performance,” he added.
