PS Belio Kipsang assures jua kali artisans of payment for desks

Principal Secretary for Basic Education Belio Kipsang has assured Jua kali artisans that they will be paid for the desks for schools program.

Speaking at Olekasasi Primary in Rongai on Thursday, the PS said the artisans will be paid immediately upon delivery of the desks for which they got the tender to supply.

The government has set aside Ksh. 1.9billion under the Economic Stimulus Programme for the supply of the locally assembled furniture to public primary and secondary schools countrywide.

PS Kipsang said the desks for schools programme aims at improving the learning environment for children.

According to the PS, the project also aims to stimulate the economy by supporting small enterprises whose fortunes were harmed by the outbreak and impact of Covid-19 pandemic.

The Principal Secretary outlined the importance of  classroom furniture as crucial elements of a learning environment.

He said desks and chairs enhance seating arrangement necessary for social distancing required under Ministry of Health guidelines on Covid-19.

The Principal Secretary also toured a workshop in Kiserian Town that is producing the desks for some schools in the area.

Present during the occasion were Assistant County Commissioner I for Kajiado North MS. Bathsheba Osiemo and the Deputy Director of Education for Kajiado North, Mr. John Njoroge.

President Uhuru Kenyatta launched the school furniture project on September 17, 2020 that will see jua kali artisans supply 650,000 locally assembled desks.

The President said the project is modelled on the ongoing Kazi Mtaani youth employment initiative.

“After Kazi Mtaani program, we have said instead of school desks being made by big companies, we give our youth the opportunity to exercise their skills.

“We believe in individuals earning from their sweat and hence we decided to give our skilled youth the opportunity to earn decent livelihoods,” the President said.

He further directed the ministries of Education and Interior to ensure that the project benefits artisans across the country.