Boost to ECDEs as Nyong'o flags off materials worth Sh21 million

ECDE learners in Kisumu county have received a boost after Governor Anyang Nyong’o distributed learning materials worth Sh21 million.

The materials were procured for 681 ECDE centres in eight subcounties.

Nyong’o said the initiative seeks to improve learning activities in the centres.

“My administration supports learners with teaching and learning materials and stationery in our public ECDE centres. This ensures quality education is accessible to all children,” he said.

Nyong’o who was accompanied by Deputy Governor Mathews Owili and Education executive John Awiti said the county has spends Sh25 million every year on ECDEs.

The money is used to buy textbooks, exercise books, pencils, sharpeners and erasers.

Nyong’o urged the ECDE teachers to remain committed to development of children.

“We appreciate the good work you are doing in your respective stations. Let us remain dedicated to the well-being of these children. Teachers have always been known to be committed and are good role models,” he said.

Kisumu has 681 public ECDE centres of which 624 are domiciled in primary schools and 57 are stand-alone.

Of the 44,521 learners in the centres, 22,080 are girls while 22,440 are boys.

Nyong’o said the county is focusing on five key nurturing areas which include health, nutrition, opportunity for early learning, safety and protection.

It also emphasises on responsive care-giving within the directorate of early childhood education and development.

"The county is mandated to oversee pre-primary and child care facilities while the national government has the mandate to develop education policies, curriculum, maintain standards and examinations as well as training and capacity building of personnel," Nyong'o said.

Owili said the learning materials are crucial for development of children, adding that the county is fully committed to improving ECDE centres.

"The county government headed by the governor will continue to support these centres for the benefit of our children," he said.