Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi has reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive education by unveiling an additional KES 4.8 million bursary allocation targeting scholars and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the constituency.
The function, held at the Westlands NG-CDF offices, brought together 270 beneficiaries—70 scholars and 200 PWDs—under the NG-CDF Westlands bursary program.
This initiative is part of the larger bursary funding plan where NG-CDF Westlands has allocated KES 44,340,000 for bursaries in the current financial year.
Of the latest disbursement, KES 2.9 million has been directed towards scholarships while KES 1.9 million supports learners living with disabilities.
“Thank you for coming to take cheques to school,” Wanyonyi told beneficiaries.
“We have two categories here—PWDs and scholars. We may not pay all your school fees, but we want to ease your burden so you can focus on the rest.”
As a Person with Disability himself, Wanyonyi urged beneficiaries not to use their conditions to fight others or seek unfair advantage, but to rise above and shine through education.
He also made a passionate appeal to President William Ruto to ensure better representation of PWDs in government leadership.
“My call to the President: In the various appointments being made, we are yet to see adequate representation of PWDs. We must not be left behind—we are looking for opportunities to contribute and serve,” he said.
His remarks come in the wake of a recent Cabinet reshuffle and diplomatic reassignments by President Ruto, which saw the nomination of new Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, and Ambassadors.
However, the reshuffle has drawn concern from PWD advocates for the absence of persons with disabilities among the appointees.
“The President has shown an intent to enhance service delivery through leadership changes. While we welcome these efforts, we must also ask—where are the PWDs? Inclusion must be part of the reform agenda,” Wanyonyi emphasized.
He called on parents of children with disabilities to enroll them in school without fear or shame.
“We will ensure your child gets an education. We shall support you and the child,” he emphasized.
Wanyonyi also encouraged scholarship recipients to maintain high academic standards.
“We prioritize needy and bright students. Use this opportunity wisely. We offer both partial and full scholarships. Education liberates and opens up doors globally.”
He noted that Kenya has historically trained professionals who are now sought-after across the continent.
“When we were young, Ugandan teachers taught us. Today, Rwanda is hiring teachers from Kenya. That’s the power of education.”
He emphasized the role of education as the great equalizer: “Whether from a rich or poor background, your effort in school determines your future. Education is an assurance that you are prepared for life.”
Lastly, he called on parents and guardians to prepare and mentor the youth: “Let us pray for them to have wisdom and the discipline to stay focused. Let us mould them to take over leadership in both public and private sectors.”
Wanyonyi concluded by urging parents to disclose any underlying disabilities in their children, so teachers and caregivers can support them appropriately. “When we understand the child’s condition, we don’t misjudge them. Let’s ensure no child is left behind.”
The event was graced by NG-CDF Westlands Chairlady Frida Lenayasa.