Over 1000 students who sat their Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examination last year in Abothuguchi West ward, Central Imenti constituency in Meru County have a reason to smile after they received shoes, shoe polish, socks and other items to enable them join secondary school.
The basic school items were donated courtesy of the Patrick Muthuri Foundation run by Patrick Muthuri, who is also the ward representative.
Speaking at Githongo Technical Training Institute during the donation exercise, Muthuri said the initiative which is an annual event is meant to ensure 100 percent transition from primary to secondary level and to also boost morale among the learners.
He said this will in the process improve the literacy levels in the area and enhance the living standards.
Muthuri said the distribution of locally-made leather shoes and other items to beneficiaries will end the discomfort experienced by learners using plastic shoes during hot weather.
“The initiative is aimed at ensuring that there is a 100 per cent transition from primary to secondary schools thereby enhancing literacy levels in the area.
When President William Ruto started addressing issues regarding education, he found it best for the students joining Form One to wear leather instead of plastic shoes,” said the MCA.
The foundation, which has been supporting students from Abothuguchi West by providing necessary school items, also donated shoe polish to all Abogeta West secondary school students.
He supported the President’s initiative to use locally manufactured shoes to ensure that all students entering secondary school have genuine leather shoes. The MCA said promoting local products will play a key role in promoting the local economy in the country.
Muthuri promised that the foundation will award scholarships to every student who passes the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education exams.
“This is meant to boost the spirit of cooperation and improve academic performance in the locality,” said Muthuri.
He called on parents to support their children by ensuring they follow up on their performance and conduct in their specific schools and that they instill discipline in them while in and out of school.
