Kiharu National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) sponsored principals from 11-day schools in the constituency for a benchmarking tour in Dubai and Malaysia.
The one-week-long tour, which was under the 'Masomo Bora' programme, selected the principals within the constituency who registered the highest improvement in the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) results.
Additionally, Gabriel Kamau, of Mukangu Secondary School, who emerged as the top principal in the constituency, was also awarded an additional trip to Malaysia.
“This is the first time many of us are flying out of the country. It’s not just about the travel; it’s a reward for the hard work we put in, and it’s very motivating,” one of the principals said.
“It feels amazing to be appreciated. For years, we’ve worked tirelessly without recognition. This gesture proves that our efforts are seen and valued,” another one stated.
According to the Masomo Bora programme coordinator, Richard Maina, motivating teachers has been fundamental in accelerating their productivity and improving the education quality of the constituency.
“We’ve seen a significant increase in the number of students from Kiharu joining universities, especially from day secondary schools, which is a clear indicator that the programme is working,” he stated.
“In an unrivalled move that has inspired both admiration and hope, the legislator sponsored a group of eleven public secondary school principals on a fully paid educational and motivational trip to Dubai,” he added.
According to our analysis, the NG-CDF spent at least Ksh1.5 million to cater for the one-week whole trip that ended today. Our analysis considers the average total cost to fly 11 people in economy class from Nairobi to Dubai at Ksh616,000 and Ksh952,000 to accommodate 11 principals in Dubai.
The figure does not include any other expenses included in travel and tours in Dubai, and neither does it account for emergencies.
According to Maina, the 'Masomo Bora' programme, which he labelled as a success, has also attracted interest from other counties, such as Murang'a County, which is considering kicking off such an initiative.
“Dropout rates have gone down, and what’s even more encouraging is the renewed energy among teachers. Many who once felt demoralised due to poor working conditions and a lack of recognition now feel appreciated and supported. It’s a complete shift in attitude,” he said.
