Othaya Member of Parliament, Wambugu Wainaina, has lauded the Masomo Bora education program sponsored by the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) for expanding access to education by residents.
Addressing day secondary school principals over the weekend, Wainaina said the program caters for tuition fees for day school students where they only pay Sh1000 per term and the NG-CDF pays Sh7, 000, which will be increased to Sh8000 this year, for smooth running of the schools.
“Masomo bora” is not just a slogan, it’s a call to action. Our children deserve every opportunity to stay in school and access quality education from primary through to secondary school and beyond,” Wambugu told teachers, parents, and students.
The “Masomo bora” initiative, a nationwide program aimed at reducing dropout rates and supporting children’s continued education, has been a priority for Wambugu, who believes it is essential for the development of the entire community.
According to the MP, the government’s efforts to provide free primary and secondary education must be complemented by local action to ensure that students are equipped with the resources and the support they need to succeed.
He said the program is part of ongoing efforts to support the education sector in the constituency, particularly for students who are at risk of dropping out due to financial constraints or other challenges.
“Through initiatives like Masomo bora programe we can reduce the barriers that prevent our children from accessing education and help build a more prosperous future for Othaya people,” said Wambugu.
“We have made significant progress in providing free education, but the challenge now is to ensure that every child stays in school, graduates, and has the skills necessary to thrive in future.
MP also urged local businesses, community leaders, and parents to work together in supporting schools by contributing to development projects, mentoring students, and raising awareness about the importance of education.
“There is a strong need for collective responsibility. It is our duty as a community to make sure that every child in Othaya has the chance to succeed,” Wambugu added.
His focus on “Masomo bora” also includes a push for improved learning facilities, teacher training, and community-based programs aimed at addressing issues such as child labor and early marriages, which often hinder the education of girls.
The MP’s engagement with the day school principals marks a critical step toward improving educational outcomes in Othaya, ensuring that more students can access and complete their education, contributing to the growth and development of the community.
Principals who attended the meeting expressed their gratitude to the MP for providing leadership and commitment to education in the region.
They also shared their concerns about challenges such as inadequate school infrastructure, absenteeism from school especially by the boy child due to use of drugs like cannabis sativa and the need for more community involvement in education.
By Beth Ndirangu