Boost For Pupils As Mombasa Introduces Free Milk

The programme will be officially launched today by Mombasa governor Ali Hassan Joho

If implemented, both the primary and nursery pupils will benefit

The aim of the programme is to help improve retention of children in schools as hunger has been cited as one of the reasons why pupils drop out of school

Speaking during a fundraising diinner that was organized by Hatua Likoni at Whitesands Hotel, the governor said that those who stay in school do not concentrate in their studies because of hunger

Joho lamented that Mombasa County is underfunded by the central government and it is therefore essential to launch such supportive programmes in order to retain children in schools.

He added that his government will also introduce porridge for children in the early childhood and development centres

‘‘We will introduce porridge for children in Early Childhood and Development Centres in the 2015-16 financial year.’’ Joho said

Joho added that there are plans to revive young farmers associations in schools to enable them produce food

He said the young students would be equipped with the latest technologies to help them produce food.

He said that despite the fact that Mombasa County gets inadequate funds from the national government, they are committed to improving education.

By Rehema Juma.