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MP Yussuf’s Educational Initiatives Reshape Mandera West

MP Yussuf's Mandera West Education Advancement

Mandera West Member of Parliament Adan Haji Yussuf has initiated transformative plan, spearheading a range of development initiatives aimed at uplifting Mandera West Constituency.

With a focus on education and community welfare, Yussuf’s efforts have left an indelible mark on the region, garnering praise from beneficiaries and constituents who spoke to GT alike.

One of the standout projects initiated by the legislature is the groundbreaking ceremony for Dandu Girls Secondary School on Thursday.

Mandera West Member of Parliament Adan Haji Yussuf lays foundation stone during the groundbreaking of the construction of Dandu Girls Secondary School. Photo/ GT

The facility is expected to enhance increased literacy in the constituency, as well as providing educational opportunities for young girls.

Reflecting on the significance of the project, Fatuma Ahmed, a local resident, expressed her gratitude, stating, “We are immensely grateful to our representative in parliament for prioritizing the education of our girls.

This school will empower our daughters and pave the way for their future success.”

In addition to the establishment of the girls’ secondary school, MP Yussuf  launched the 2023/24 Bursary Program, allocating a substantial budget of 35 million Kenyan Shillings.

The initiative has provided much-needed financial support to students, easing the burden on their families.

Many families struggle to afford school fees, uniforms, and learning materials, leading to high dropout rates, especially among girls.

Speaking about the impact of the program, Halima Ali, a beneficiary, said, “The bursary program has been a lifeline for many of us. Thanks to the fair distribution demonstrated above, I can continue my education without worrying about financial constraints.”

Mr. Yussuf, also the Chairperson of the  National Cohesion and Equal Opportunity Committee of the National Assembly commissioned the Dandu Junior Secondary School (JSS) to expand educational opportunities within the constituency.

JSS institutions typically cater to students in grades 7 to 9, providing them with a foundation for their further academic pursuits.

The initiative has been met with enthusiasm from the community who welcomed the move that will bridge the gap between primary and secondary education.

Mrs. Amina Hassan, a local teacher, shared her thoughts on the significance of the establishment of the junior secondary school.

She noted its importance, stating, “The establishment of the junior secondary school is a crucial development for our community.”

Students in class following the inauguration of Dandu Junior Secondary School (JSS), aimed at laying a solid foundation for their future academic endeavors. Photo/ GT

Mwalimu Amina said it will provide greater access to education and elevate the quality of learning opportunities available to our students.

Mr. Ibrahim Mohamed a community leader said the initiative demonstrate true leadership that prioritizes the welfare constituents.

“The development brings hope and prosperity to our community,” he said.

MP Adan Haji Yussuf reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of Mandera West Constituency.

He underscored the importance of collective efforts in driving progress. He has pledged to continue advocating for initiatives that uplift the lives of the constituents.

Education in Mandera, a county in northeastern Kenya, faces unique challenges and opportunities shaped by its geographic location, cultural diversity, and socio-economic dynamics.

Despite these challenges, education remains a fundamental priority for the county, with concerted efforts underway to improve access, quality, and relevance across all levels of education.

One of the primary challenges facing education in Mandera is the region’s remote and arid landscape, which poses logistical challenges for the establishment and maintenance of educational infrastructure.

However, significant strides have been made in recent years to address this issue, with legislatures increasingly funding the construction of new schools, classrooms, and dormitories.

They have also supported the provision of basic amenities such as clean water and sanitation facilities.

Insecurity, fueled by inter-communal conflicts and insurgent activities have also disrupted learning, forcing schools to close temporarily and displacing students and teachers seeking transfers to schools in other regions.

A group of teachers from the North Eastern gather at the Teachers Service Commission headquarters in Nairobi to demand their transfer from the region due to insecurity. | Wilfred Nyangaresi | Nation Media Group

Despite these challenges, there is a growing recognition of the importance of education as a catalyst for development and social transformation in Mandera.

Local leaders, community members, and education stakeholders are working together to overcome barriers and expand educational opportunities for all residents.

Investments in teacher training, professional development, and recruitment have helped improve the quality of education in Mandera.

Moreover, initiatives such as school feeding programs, bursaries, and scholarships are helping to address socio-economic barriers to education, ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have equal opportunities to learn and succeed.

Community engagement and partnerships with local organizations, NGOs, and government agencies are also driving progress in education, fostering a sense of ownership and sustainability.

Education in Mandera is a complex and multifaceted endeavor shaped by geographic, cultural, and socio-economic factors.

While challenges persist, there is a strong commitment to overcoming barriers and building a brighter future through education.

Mandera county government has also been providing financial support aimed at creating a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous education system that empowers its residents to thrive and contribute to the development of the county and Kenya.