By Hilda Atika
Shinyalu Constituency Member of Parliament Fred Ikana has reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the education landscape in the region through partnerships with education officials and MCAs. Emphasizing development-focused politics, the MP pledged to work with all leaders, irrespective of party affiliations, to uplift schools and improve access to quality education.
Speaking at Shidodo Primary School, where he inaugurated the construction of a story building for classrooms, Ikana urged the contractor to expedite the project, enabling students to benefit from the new learning facilities promptly.
The MP also commended the contractor at Shitochi Secondary School for ensuring that classrooms will be completed before the end of the current term. “This is the work that has brought me here. If we want to change Shinyalu, we have to invest in education,” Ikana told parents during the event.
Supporting Students Through Bursaries
Last year, Ikana pledged bursaries of Ksh 5,000 for all Form 4 candidates in day schools to reduce instances of students being sent home due to unpaid fees. He acknowledged the financial struggles parents face, often resorting to selling chickens to pay school fees, and reiterated his commitment to easing their burden.
Ikana celebrated the constituency’s improved 2024 KCSE results, noting a significant reduction in students scoring an ‘E’ grade—from 162 to less than 100. He also highlighted the near doubling of students joining university compared to the previous year.
“We have started the journey, and we shall not rest. I want to ensure every home has a graduate and a degree holder. That is why I am focused on education,” he stated passionately.
Acknowledging infrastructure challenges in Shinyalu schools, Ikana revealed plans to complete stalled projects. He recently visited Ingolomosio Secondary School in Isukha North to commission a classroom project initiated by his predecessor, Hon. Justus Kizito. The project had stalled, but Ikana allocated Ksh 14 million to ensure its completion, promising a conducive learning environment for students. He criticized leaders who initiate projects only to abandon them, calling it a misuse of public funds that burdens the community.
Resolving Management Issues at St. Philips Mukomari Secondary School
Ikana also addressed the financial struggles at St. Philips Mukomari Secondary School, which had been collapsing due to poor management and unpaid loans. These challenges forced students to transfer out of the institution. The MP vowed to find sustainable solutions to restore stability.
Boosting TVET Education at Sigalagala Polytechnic
To promote technical and vocational education, Ikana announced a partnership with Kenya Commercial Bank to invest Ksh 3 million into Sigalagala Polytechnic. He encouraged parents to enrol their children in TVET courses, highlighting the institution’s potential to create job opportunities for local graduates.
“We want the polytechnic to employ our own children who have studied and graduated there. This should happen by the time I come to grace the next graduation ceremony,” he affirmed.
Ikana’s dedication to education and infrastructure development continues to resonate with the Shinyalu community, as he works to ensure lasting change and brighter futures for local students.
