Parklands Ward residents turned up in large numbers at Highridge Primary School for the bursary application process under the Westlands NG-CDF program. The event, overseen by Westlands MP Hon. Tim Wanyonyi, saw a total of 1,300 successful applications—1,000 for secondary school students and 300 for college and university students.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Tim Wanyonyi expressed gratitude to those who had supported his family during the recent loss of his mother. He emphasized the importance of education, urging parents to ensure their children attend school, regardless of their own educational background.
“We are here because of education. Our children must learn. Parents, do not take chances with your children’s future—ensure they go to school. You do not know what God has planned for them. Even if you did not get an education, make sure your child does. We are ready to support them to the highest level,” he said.
The MP also highlighted the scholarship program for bright but needy students, particularly orphans, who struggle to afford school fees. These students are identified through schools, local chiefs, and home visits. However, he cautioned that continued support depends on their academic performance, requiring them to present their report cards every term.
“Societies that embrace education develop. Once you attain your certificates, you will find a job, no matter how long it takes. Education provides innovation and skills that help secure employment,” he added.
Hon. Wanyonyi took the opportunity to defend the role of NG-CDF, emphasizing its positive impact on education infrastructure in Westlands. He noted the construction of Highridge Girls and four new secondary schools—North Highridge, Loresho, Farasi Lane, and Kabete Vet Lab Secondary Schools—under NG-CDF. He also acknowledged the government’s recent allocation of 29 additional classrooms per constituency, complementing NG-CDF’s efforts.
“We have raised the bar in Westlands. Whoever takes over after me must build on this progress. I have served you for three terms as your MP, and now we must move to City Hall in 2027 to ensure even greater development,” he stated, reaffirming his gubernatorial ambitions.
The legislator also urged the youth to register as voters once the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) reopens the registration process. “Your vote is your weapon for change. Take your ID and register. Making noise without voting will not help,” he advised, pledging assistance in facilitating ID applications.
Addressing concerns about national security, Hon. Wanyonyi condemned recent cases of abductions and mysterious disappearances, citing them as acts of terror. He criticized government officials who fail to act and called for strict enforcement of cybercrime laws to curb misuse of social media and criminal activities.
On political matters, he reaffirmed his loyalty to the ODM party and its role in opposition. “ODM remains in the opposition; we are not in any coalition with UDA. Some members have joined the government, but I will stay in the opposition to keep the government in check. Without oversight, the government will relax in service delivery,” he asserted.
He further warned against the transfer of NG-CDF funds to the Ministry of Education, arguing that such a move would make access to bursaries more difficult for deserving students.
Parklands MCA Stephen Ndegwa, in his remarks, lauded Hon. Wanyonyi’s commitment to education. “On matters of education, Tim Wanyonyi is number one. Every school in Westlands has benefited from his projects. He is following in the footsteps of President Mwai Kibaki, who championed free education,” he said.
Ndegwa also urged the MP to address the challenges posed by Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakango’s directive preventing counties from administering bursaries beyond nursery school. “Parents are struggling, and allowing counties to provide bursaries for post-nursery students would be a great relief,” he added.
Highridge Primary School Headteacher, Esther Wambui, called on parents to enroll their children in school, emphasizing that education at the institution is free and that no child should be kept at home. “Education eradicates poverty. Hon. Tim, we are also requesting tiles for our classrooms,” she appealed.