Japan builts special school at Sh8.5million

By Grace Wekesa

The Japanese Government has constructed an education centre for mentally challenged and epileptic children in Kakamega County at a cost of Sh8.5 million.

The ultra modern St Joseph The Worker Home for Mentally Challenged and Epileptic, in Malava constituency, would help in improving the living standards of the less fortunate children in the society.

The centre that was commissioned by deputy Ambassador of Japan to Kenya Yoichiro Yamada Wednesday has an administration block, classrooms, a modern rehabilitation gymnasium and a sanitation facility.

The facility, which was expanded, would accommodate 100 children up from the current 54.

Speaking during the ceremony, Mr Yamada who presided over the event said the Japanese Government was committed to ensuring that the physically and mentally challenged person get assistance to lead better lives.

He added that his government would partner with Kenya to initiate programmes that would improve the living standards of people with disabilities.

“We want to see people living with disabilities access education, health care and other basic needs like any other Kenyan,” said Yamada.

Yamada noted that physically and mentally challenged persons often live in poverty and face stigmatisation and discrimination in the society.

Another programme that has benefited from their funding is the Project for the provision of safe water at Kazusabori Technology in Webuye and  Busia respectively.