School alumni contributions go further than financial help, Ogamba says

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has emphasised the important role alumni play in the growth of schools beyond financial assistance.

Speaking on Monday when he presided over the laying of the foundation stone for the infrastructural development of Limbine School in Tigania West constituency, Ogamba said the alumni can support schools through professional services, donations, mentorship, and resource mobilisation — which, he said, are especially critical as the country faces infrastructure challenges due to growing student enrollment.

He lauded the initiative driven by the school’s alumni in partnership with area MP Dr John Kanyuithia Mutunga, terming it a model worth emulating across the country.

 “The alumni of any institution are its first brand ambassadors. Their lived experiences and understanding of the school’s culture give them the capacity to make meaningful and targeted contributions,” said the CS.

He praised the reunion of former students, which he noted provides a unique opportunity for intergenerational exchange and reflection on the school’s evolution and future. He encouraged other education managers and alumni groups to foster stronger relationships for mutual benefit.

He further emphasised the government’s ongoing education sector reforms, particularly the transition to Competency-Based Education (CBE), revealing that the first Grade 9 assessment is scheduled for later this year, leading to the inaugural transition to Senior School in January next year.

Ogamba said the government is investing in 1,600 science laboratories and textbook distribution at a 1:1 ratio per learner, adding that 24,000 teachers are set to be recruited, and Sh950 million allocated for Senior School teacher retooling.

To support higher education, the CS reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring access and equity through enhanced student financing. He noted that the Higher Education Loans Board’s budget has risen from Sh36 billion to Sh41 billion, while the Universities Fund stands at Sh16.9 billion.

 “No student should be left behind. This academic year alone, over 200,000 first-year university students and 237,000 TVET trainees will benefit from government funding,” he stated.

The CS urged school leadership to ensure prudent and transparent use of public resources, stressing that alumni have a key role in building institutional accountability.

He praised the Limbine School community and alumni for their visionary effort that will positively impact generations of learners.

 “I am confident that the example you have set here today will inspire similar action across the country.”