By Betty Luke
The government has been called on to invest more resources on education for girls in pastoralists counties as a way to end marginalization and inequality.
Speakers during St Mary’s Girls Isiolo Alumnae Day said though there existed disparities in access to education for girls in Northern Kenya compared to the rest of the country, it was the State’s responsibility to ensure it is affordable especially to those from poor backgrounds.
Education champion Sharon Alois who is also one of the school’s alumni said in line with the government’s 100 percent transition policy, the duty bearers should ensure all girls remain in school so that they are not married off.
“When a girl is sent home for school fees, they are exposed to risks that include early marriage and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) which could see them eventuality drop out of school. It is important for the government to put in adequate measures to ensure learning is uninterrupted by ensuring their school fees is paid,” said Ms Aloise.
Her sentiments were echoed by the school’s head Sr. Julia Mark who implored the county government to ensure fair distribution of bursaries, terming it the surest way of ensuring learning went on without challenges.
“There are some bright but very needy students who we struggle so much to keep in school. We appeal for support from the government to ensure they do not drop out of school because if they do, their dreams will be shattered,” she told journalists in Isiolo town.
The alumnae forum Chairperson Esther Munyi revealed that the group had rolled out a mentorship program for girls across the county that would not only enlighten them on importance of education but also motivate them to appreciate their institutions and work hard to achieve their dreams.
She said though marginalized, the county boasted of many people who overcame the barriers and achieved their dreams, becoming notable figures in the country.
“I urge the girls from across Isiolo not to pity themselves because their schools are not known but work hard and remain focused on their dreams,” said Ms Munyi.
The team, many of whom completed their secondary education in 2006, donated books and sanitary towels to the institution that they praised for molding them into who they have become.
