Embakasi East MP Babu Owino Calls for Timely CDF Funding to Ensure Students’ High School Entry
Embakasi East Member of Parliament, Babu Owino, has called on the Kenyan government to expedite the disbursement of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to address the urgent financial needs of parents as their children prepare to join high school. The MP stressed the critical nature of timely funding, particularly in light of the current financial constraints many parents are facing, which may hinder them from enrolling their children in high school this year.
Owino raised concerns that a lack of financial support, often attributed to unemployment, could prevent students from accessing high school education. He warned of a high risk of dropouts among students already in school due to the inability to meet tuition fees.
With the release of the KCPE results, we have a cohort of students set to join high school this year. Unfortunately, many parents find themselves in a challenging financial position and will struggle to meet the cost of education, said Owino.
I urge the national government to act swiftly and allocate funds for bursaries so that we can provide financial assistance to these deserving students who are transitioning to high schools, he added.
Owino assured his constituents that he would prioritize the timely disbursement of bursaries, ensuring that every student in his constituency has the opportunity to pursue secondary education.
I want to reassure my constituents that I am fully committed to ensuring that your children have access to education. I am willing to utilize my own salary and expedite the bursary process to support your children in their educational journey, he pledged.
The MP’s call for timely CDF funding aligns with Opposition leader Raila Odinga’s recent accusation against the government for allegedly misleading Kenyans about increased capitation for students while failing to disburse the full allocation from the previous academic year. This revelation raises concerns about the financial challenges that schools and students may face as they commence the new academic year.
The Ministry of Education has not responded to inquiries regarding this matter.
As the academic year commences, the government’s ability to promptly disburse funds for students will play a crucial role in ensuring that all eligible students can access quality education without financial barriers.
The timely allocation of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) is vital to support parents and ease the burden of high school expenses. By prioritizing education funding, the government can ensure that students have equal opportunities and reduce the risk of dropouts due to financial constraints.
It is crucial for the Ministry of Education to work hand in hand with Members of Parliament, like Babu Owino, who prioritize the welfare of their constituents and advocate for timely funding. With everyone’s support, Kenyan students can receive the education they deserve and contribute to the development of the nation.
