Among the financial woes facing Kenya’s education system, the Joseph Waswa Foundation has committed to giving Ksh2 million to support bright but needy students in Webuye West Constituency. The program is part of the foundation’s Education Support Scheme.
A timely intervention in hard times
Joseph Lendrix Waswa, Chairman of the Joseph Waswa Foundation, said he will ensure that all children in Webuye West, regardless of their background will have access to education. In an interview, Waswa outlined the objectives of the foundation’s new program.
“My foundation is rolling out the Education Support Scheme worth Ksh2 million that will ensure at least needy but bright students benefit from the scheme and continue with their studies,” Waswa said. He added that the foundation will directly address the increasing financial hardships many families are facing which will make students drop out of school.
With many students across the country at risk of dropping out due to financial constraints, the program will provide school fees support to bright students who would otherwise not be able to continue with their studies. The program may be small compared to the overall needs of the country but it’s a ray of hope to those in Webuye West who are at risk of being left behind.
Government’s response to school financial crisis
While private initiatives like the Joseph Waswa Foundation’s program play a big role in supporting individual students, the government has also stepped in to address the bigger financial crisis in the country’s schools. On Tuesday, the government released Ksh14 billion to schools across the country, following a release of Ksh19 billion last week.
In a statement from the Government Spokesperson’s office, it was announced that KCB account holders will start accessing the funds on Thursday with the remaining funds to be disbursed by Friday. This brings the total amount released for this term to Ksh33 billion which is for school capitation covering tuition and operational expenses.
However, the government also said an outstanding balance of Ksh15 billion is still outstanding for this term and will be released soon. School heads and principals had expressed concern over the delay in the release of funds but this latest disbursement has brought relief to schools struggling with financial Shortfalls.
Role of private foundations
While the government is providing funds for schools, many students still have challenges to complete their education especially those who need individual support. That’s where private initiatives like Joseph Waswa Foundation come in. The foundation’s intervention shows the role of community based initiative in supporting education especially for students who may not benefit directly from government capitation.