The enrollment of learners in Mandera County has more than doubled following the introduction of a free education programme by the county government, marking a major milestone in the region’s quest for universal education.
Launched three years ago, the Elimu Kwa Wote (Education for All) initiative has seen enrollment rise by over 70%, with local schools witnessing a dramatic reduction in dropout rates.
Under the programme, all students in public secondary schools pay zero fees, while those in colleges pay only half the usual tuition costs.
Speaking on the success of the initiative, Mandera Governor Muhamed Aden Khalif hailed it as a transformative step toward eradicating illiteracy in the region. “This initiative has given every child, regardless of their background, a fair chance to pursue education,” said Khalif
County Executive Committee Member for Education Alex Mutua noted that the initiative has been a “game changer” for pastoralist communities who often face disruptions to schooling due to drought and displacement. “For the first time, education is becoming a priority among pastoral families,” Mutua said.
Parents have also expressed gratitude for the county’s support. “I no longer worry about my children dropping out because of school fees,” said Abdullahi, a parent in Mandera.
Another parent, Hawa Hussein, added, “Education is now within reach for everyone, even for those of us who struggle to make ends meet.”However, the sharp rise in enrollment has brought new challenges, particularly a shortage of teachers.
To address this, the county government has established the Mandera Teachers Training College, where it sponsors local students to train as teachers before absorbing them into public schools.
Dr. Issak, the college principal, said the institution has already started producing qualified teachers to meet growing demand. “We are building a self-sustaining education system by training our own people,” he said.
One of the trainee teachers, Hussein Adan, expressed optimism about the future. “I’m proud to be part of a generation that will give back to our community through teaching,” he said.
According to the Mandera County Government, the Elimu Kwa Wote programme aims to make Mandera one of the most literate counties not just in Kenya, but globally, a vision that is steadily becoming reality.
