Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has paid school fees amounting to KSh 1,044,000 for 210 students at Muungano Secondary School in Kiminini Sub-County.
The move is part of Natembeya’s bid to combat chronic absenteeism and poor performance through his administration’s Ukombozi bursary and economic empowerment programs.
Cause of Muungano Secondary School’s poor performance
Speaking during a visit to the school on Thursday, July 24, 2025, Natembeya said financial constraints had forced many students out of class, contributing to last year’s dismal performance when 44 candidates scored an “E” grade in national examinations.
“Through the Ukombozi bursary initiative, no student will be left behind as we work to uplift the standard of education in this county,” he said.
“We cannot allow poverty to deny our children the chance to learn and secure a better future.”
The governor, who also distributed sanitary pads, mathematical sets, and calculators to final-year students, urged learners to improve their grades.
“We are providing the tools and support you need. Now, you must work hard,” he said.
On her part, Education County Executive Committee Member (CECM) Janerose Mutama said poverty and absenteeism were the main reasons behind the school’s poor academic record.
How many Muungano Secondary School students scored university entry marks in 2024?
She noted that last year, only one student at the Muungano Secondary School qualified for university admission.
“Half of the candidates scored an ‘E’. Many of these students were traced to farms, working to raise school fees,” Mutama said.
“Some girls have been affected by early pregnancies, while boys are neglected and lack basic needs like clothing, which keeps them out of school,” she added.
Mutama also warned against men who exploit girls in exchange for sanitary pads and said the county government had stepped in to provide such necessities.
“We are also launching mentorship programs for school-going girls to address early pregnancies head-on,” she added.
Muungano Secondary School principal David Masai Wekesa said poverty, early pregnancies, and social issues were affecting learning.
“Currently, a number of students are pregnant, while others already have children. We have started guiding and counseling sessions to help them cope,” he said.
Governor Natembeya said the county would continue rolling out long-term solutions, including the Nawiri Fund, aimed at helping families achieve financial independence.
