Magutuni: Tharaka Nithi Woman Representative Susan Ngugi has supported Igakiramba Primary School in Magutuni with a 5,000-litre water tank and food supplies to strengthen the school’s newly launched feeding programme.
According to Kenya News Agency, during a visit to the school, Ngugi donated a 210-litre cooking sufuria, 100 kilogrammes of rice and beans, 20 litres of cooking oil, onions, and tomatoes to support the feeding programme for two weeks. Ngugi stated that the initiative would ease the burden on parents who have been required to provide foodstuffs such as maize and beans for their children. She highlighted the importance of school feeding programmes in improving pupils’ attendance and enrolment, particularly among children from families facing financial difficulties.
School headteacher Moreen Karani expressed gratitude towards the Woman Representative for the support, noting that the school had been facing serious water challenges. She explained that the school receives water only twice a week, a situation that affects cooking, cleaning, and access to clean drinking water for pupils. Karani appealed for further support to improve the school’s infrastructure, including a request to level the playground and improve the entrance to the school. Additionally, she highlighted the need for electricity wiring and lighting in classrooms, and the construction of a kitchen and dining area to ensure meals are prepared in a hygienic environment.
Ngugi, who has aspirations to become the Tharaka Nithi Governor, emphasized her commitment to improving education and the welfare of learners across the county. She outlined her plans to achieve a teacher-to-pupil ratio of one teacher for every 20 pupils, employ Early Childhood Development Education teachers, and provide free nursery school education, uniforms, and balanced meals for learners. Ngugi also promised enhancements in vocational training and the provision of free sanitary towels to primary school pupils.
Ngugi concluded by encouraging residents to support women’s leadership from the grassroots level, noting that increased participation of women in leadership roles could address various challenges affecting families and communities.
