A groundbreaking initiative to provide free school uniforms to Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) learners has been met with widespread acclaim in Kirinyaga County.

Launched by Governor Anne Waiguru earlier this year, the program has been a catalyst for positive change in the sector, according to parents, teachers, and government officials.

At the heart of the initiative is a recognition of the challenges faced by many families in affording basic school necessities.

"When you look at our kids they look very smart, and they can now focus on education and perform better," said Benson Mutinda, a parent whose child attends Kutus Primary School.

"Many children who couldn't afford uniforms and other learning materials can now attend school. This kind of support is enabling more children attend school since they are catered for."

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The financial strain of providing uniforms has been a significant barrier to education for countless families, often forcing children to miss school or wear inappropriate clothing.

Grace Wambui, another parent, echoed Mutinda’s sentiments, highlighting the broader impact of the program: "We are now happy that our children as well as teachers are well facilitated to learn and teach respectively. She said that such support goes a long way in improving the education standards in the ECDEs."

Beyond the economic benefits, the initiative has also had a profound impact on children's self-esteem and academic performance.

"We have seen some of the pupils who were always dull in class are now jovial, they can raise their hands in class to answer questions," noted Grace Nyambura, a teacher at Ngando Primary School.

"Torn uniforms reduce pupils' self-esteem and confidence, resulting into poor academic performance."

The county government has undertaken a comprehensive approach, distributing not only uniforms but also essential learning materials to both students and teachers.

Over 15,000 ECDE learners across 200 centres are set to benefit from the program, with uniforms differentiated by constituency colour.

Governor Waiguru has positioned this initiative as a cornerstone of her broader vision for ECDE reform.

Alongside the provision of uniforms, the county has invested in infrastructure improvements, including the construction and renovation of classrooms, as well as the supply of essential furniture and teaching aids.

Looking ahead, the governor has ambitious plans to expand the program's impact.

"We are committed to going beyond just uniforms. Our next step is to ensure that every child receives a pair of shoes," Waiguru declared.

To achieve this, the county is exploring the innovative use of animal skins from local slaughterhouses to produce shoes at the EPZ Industrial Park in Sagana.

The far-reaching effects of the initiative are evident in the testimonials of educators and community leaders.

Jeremiah Makimi, a Member of the County Assembly, emphasized the program's success in Kariti Ward, where all 1,080 PP1 and PP2 students have received uniforms and learning materials.

Headteachers Geoffrey Mukuha and Obadiah Kariuki expressed their gratitude for the positive transformation the initiative has brought to their schools.

As the program continues to unfold, its impact on the lives of young children and their communities is undeniable.

By addressing the basic needs of students and empowering educators, Kirinyaga County is laying a strong foundation for future generations.