Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) Director Mohammed Badi has unveiled a Ksh800 million fund aimed at helping the less privileged in Nairobi County.
Speaking during the launch of the Nairobi County Executive and Ward Bursary on Tuesday, February 16, Badi noted that needy students in the county are eligible to receive between Ksh45,000 and Ksh53,000, sent directly to the schools of the beneficiaries.
The bursary fund, administered in partnership with the office of the Nairobi Deputy Governor Ann Kananu, aims at benefitting over 62,000 students.
So far, Co-operative Bank, which is the official banking partner, has confirmed receiving Ksh427 million from NMS.
“I can assure you that the funds are already in our accounts and we are waiting to disburse them to selected schools and we will ensure that the bursaries reach the targeted individuals in time,” stated a representative of the bank.
Badi urged MCAs to ensure realisation of the Ward Development fund's full potential.
"(We should ensure) the welfare of pupils across Nairobi through on going distribution of face masks, sanitisers, installation of Hand Washing Stations even through partnerships with Well wishers, NGOs and other agencies," stated Badi.
Nairobi CEC Janet Ouko had earlier noted that some of the bursary funds from the 2019/2020 financial year had not been disbursed due to wrangles in Nairobi County.
“We ask other well wishers and companies to come forth and assist in keeping our children in school because when we give an opportunity to one child it will help the society in the long run,” stated Ouko.
“This scheme is going to help over 56 per cent of bright students who are at government schools but reside in urban slums but who due to financial challenges, cannot progress to secondary school,” she added.
