EMBU, Kenya- At least 7,500 students in Mbeere North Constituency are set to benefit from a newly launched free day secondary school education programme spearheaded by area Member of Parliament Leonard Wamuthende.
Parents with learners joining Grade 10 have been urged to enroll their children in nearby day secondary schools to take advantage of the initiative, which officially launches on Friday, January 16, 2026.
Speaking exclusively to Y News, Wamuthende confirmed that the programme has already kicked off, with several schools admitting students under the initiative.
“I am urging needy parents with Grade 10 learners to enroll them in day secondary schools near their homes so that they can get a chance to study. I have already spoken to several headteachers, and they have agreed to admit these learners. The ball is now in the parents’ court,” said Wamuthende.
The MP noted that the programme fulfills a key campaign promise aimed at ensuring no child in Mbeere North misses secondary education due to lack of school fees.
He revealed that many students were unable to proceed to secondary school in 2025, a situation that motivated him to act.
“During my campaigns, I discovered that many students were out of secondary school simply because their parents could not afford fees. That really touched me. Initially, I targeted 6,000 students, but due to the overwhelming need, I increased the number to 7,500,” he said.
Wamuthende further announced plans to introduce Performance Excellence Awards in March 2026 to recognize and motivate outstanding teachers, students, and supportive parents.
“For a long time, teachers and students have worked hard without recognition. Through these awards, my office will appreciate teachers whose students perform well, as well as top-performing students and their parents, both at local and national levels,” he added.
Confirming the programme’s rollout, St. Anthony Siakago Day Secondary School Principal Judith Kamau said her school has already received a strong turnout of new students.
“I received at least 70 students on the first day alone. Parents and learners are very excited about this opportunity, and I expect more enrollments during the week,” Kamau said.
She added that the school anticipates enrolling up to 200 students and described the initiative as a major boost to education access in the constituency.
“I want to thank Honourable Wamuthende for this noble gesture. Many students who would otherwise have missed out on education now have a chance to learn. I urge parents and students to take full advantage of this opportunity because education can truly change lives,” she said.
The free day secondary education programme is expected to significantly improve transition rates to secondary school and enhance education outcomes in Mbeere North Constituency, Embu County.
