Kakamega County urged to address critical deficiencies in education sector

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa. His administration has been urged to address deficiencies in the education sector. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

Transparency International Kenya has called on the Kakamega County government to take urgent action following the release of an audit report highlighting severe deficiencies in the region’s education sector.

The report highlights severe deficiencies in Kakamega County's education sector, with a particular focus on Vocational Training Programs (VTCs).

It points to a lack of resources, inadequate teaching staff, and poor infrastructure, all of which are undermining the quality of education in these programs.

Brian Kibira, the Project Officer for Transparency International in the Western region, presented the findings in Kakamega Town, stressing the critical gaps in the education system.

“The report identifies several key areas of concern, particularly the shortage of learning materials, the need for more qualified teachers, and inadequate school facilities. The county government must act quickly to address these issues to ensure that students receive a quality education,” Kibira said.

He also mentioned that there is a low percentage of students with disabilities enrolled in Vocational Training Programs (VTCs).

"The survey, conducted in Kakamega County, found that only approximately 5% of students in VTCs have disabilities. This likely reflects either a lack of opportunities for students with disabilities in VTCs or insufficient resources and facilities to meet their needs. “he said.

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The report also suggests that social stigma surrounding disabilities and a lack of awareness about available support services might be discouraging students with disabilities from enrolling in VTCs.

"Physical accessibility barriers, both within VTC buildings and in the surrounding environments, are hindering access for students with disabilities. “ Said Kibira.

Kibira commended the collaborative effort between Transparency International and the Kakamega County government, which facilitated the data collection for the report.

"This partnership has been instrumental in identifying the challenges we face and will help guide future improvements in the education sector,” he added.

In response to the audit, Boniface Okoth, Kakamega’s Education Chief Officer, assured the public that the county government is committed to implementing the recommendations laid out in the report.

"We are determined to ensure that the necessary actions are taken to improve education in Kakamega County,” Dr. Okoth stated.

He emphasised that addressing these gaps is a priority for the county government.

Okoth also called on parents to take an active role in their children's education, urging them to ensure their children are enrolled in school and receive the necessary skills for success in life.

“Education is key to unlocking opportunities, and we must work together to ensure every child has access to quality education,” he said.