Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has pledged to absorb 81 university scholarship beneficiaries into the workforce upon completion of their studies.

Speaking during an event at the Kakamega Golf Club Hotel on Saturday, August 30, where he officially sent off the students to their respective campuses, the governor assured them of his commitment to ensure they are integrated into the job market once they graduate.

“After doing well in your exams and passing with flying colours, we want you to come back here, Mimi Kama Baba Yenu. I will try and make sure that you are absorbed in the job market,” Barasa stated.

He told the beneficiaries that after excelling in their exams, they should return to serve the county. He promised, as their leader and a father figure, to do everything possible to secure their employment opportunities within the county once their studies are complete.

He also added that he will alsoprovide internship and attachment opportunities to them whenever required and during the holidays to prevent the students from being excessively idle.

Governor Barasa expressed pride in the scholarship programme, noting that each of the 81 beneficiaries will receive at least Ksh40,000 per year, disbursed as Ksh20,000 per semester. He explained that the funds will be sent directly to the respective universities, with students receiving a remittance advice instead of cash.

According to him, the county has already invested over Ksh40 million in scholarships, with Ksh20 million allocated for the current year alone to support education.

“I am proud because the 81 beneficiaries each will get at least Ksh40K for the entire year, Ksh20K per semester. I have discussed with the CEO; we will concentrate on sending the money to your schools, and after being given it, you will be given a remittance advice. It will not be cash. So far we have done very well in terms of scholarships; we have used over Ksh40 million on scholarships, and for this year alone we have over Ksh20 million to support your education,” he added.

Selection method

He further commended the students for being selected from a pool of 800 applicants through a rigorous vetting process. He described them as a special breed from Kakamega County and encouraged them to be good ambassadors of the county in their respective campuses.

The governor also promised that the county government will attend their graduation ceremonies as a show of support and pride in their achievements.