President William Ruto on Wednesday awarded scholarships to a number of students who impressed at the just- concluded National Drama Festival.
Students from various schools across the nation have been granted scholarships to pursue studies at the universities where they will enroll upon completing their secondary school education.
Ruto noted that the scholarships are part of his efforts to promote the arts and culture in the country. He said that he was impressed by the students' talent and creativity, and that he believes they have the potential to make a significant contribution to the world of arts and culture.
“We will also offer scholarships to learners who flourished in this festival," the Head of State assured the students.
The scholarships will cover the students' tuition, accommodation, and meals for the duration of their studies in their respective faculties including at the School of Performing Arts.
Ruto's gesture was immediately welcomed by the students and their teachers, who have expressed their gratitude for the opportunity.
The teachers and students who spoke at the event noted that the scholarships will help them to pursue their dreams of becoming professional actors, dancers, and musicians.
The Head of State also revealed that the government will promote teachers who have excelled in the training of artists in schools.
He lauded the participants for their incredible performances and committed to lay more emphasis on the creative sector for the youth to productively leverage their talents.
He announced that the Permanent Presidential Music Commission will be rebranded to Creative Commission of Kenya and revamped to boost the creative industry.
“The Commission will have professional studios in every county to give opportunities to every artist ,” he added.
The President also directed the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) to digitise all performances within a month and run a monetised YouTube channel.
“We believe it is possible to build a society where the artist, the songwriter, the choreographer, the instrumentalist and the vocalist can make a decent living from their craft and talents,” he stated.
The Head of State explained the Government will promote teachers who have excelled in the training of artists in schools.
“We will also offer scholarships to learners who flourished in this festival," Ruto stated.
