Agency constructs Sh3 million classrooms for disabled learners

Chairperson, Board of Trustees, National Fund for Disable Kenya Kristina Kenyatta Prat. [File, Standard]

The National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK) has funded the construction of Sh3 million classrooms in Sebit Primary School, West Pokot county.

The initiative is aimed at easing access to education for learners with disabilities in a bid to achieve equity in the area.

Major (Rtd) Marsden Madoka, a trustee of NFDK, said there is need to ensure equity in access to learning opportunities for all children.

Madoka was speaking during the commissioning of the classrooms at the school. 

He warned parents against hiding children with disabilities saying that it deprives them of their fundamental rights to education.

"We urge parents not to conceal their children's disabilities but to bring them out so they can receive necessary assistance," he said.

Madoka assured of NFDK's commitment to support initiatives that promote the well-being and empowerment of persons with disabilities.

"We are dedicated to assisting where there is a need. Our investment in projects that generate income aims to provide sustainable support to the disabled community," he said.

He pledged to provide wheelchairs, crutches and other essential items for learners at the school.

"We encourage individuals to seek assistance. We extend our support to the disabled community annually. The newly constructed classrooms and offices at this school will benefit the entire sub-county," he said.

Ann Mugambi, a trustee at NFDK reiterated their dedication to enhancing the quality of education for individuals with disabilities.

"Through our flagship projects, we aim to provide opportunities for the disabled to receive quality education," she said.

The classrooms will benefit 70 disabled learners and are tailored to their needs.

Evans Onyancha, the Sub County Director of Education for Kipkomo, commended NFDK for supporting the learners.

Hilda Ruto, the school headteacher, said they have been facing challenges including inadequate infrastructure and reluctance by some parents to enroll disabled children.

"Despite these challenges, we are committed to excellence. Parents often delay enrolling their children, depriving them of crucial educational opportunities," said Ruto.

Teresa Longar, a parent, thanked NFDK for the classrooms saying this will save residents the agony of walking long distance in search of schools for their children.

"The construction of these classrooms will ease our struggles," she said.