Invest in education for community growth-Bungoma Deputy Governor urges Muslims
She spoke during the Muslim Education Day, an event that aims to celebrate the achievements of Muslim schools in the counties of Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia and Vihiga
The Bungoma Deputy Governor has called on Muslims in the Western region to invest in the education sector, emphasizing that such efforts are key to improving academic standards within the community.
Janepher Chemtai Mbatiany urged parents and leaders to prioritize the education of their children, noting that a strong educational foundation is essential for driving the country’s socio-economic development.
Speaking at the Bungoma Muslim Centre (BMC) during the fourth edition of the Muslim Education Secretariat for Western Province (MESWEP) Education Day held over the weekend, she encouraged stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and invest in inclusive, high-quality learning noting that such collaboration is crucial in preparing the next generation to become responsible and productive citizens.
Mbatiany underscored the need to provide a conducive learning environment, stressing that it is vital for Muslim communities and leaders to work together to uplift academic standards in their schools. She highlighted the importance of supporting educational institutions and enhancing existing infrastructure to achieve this goal.
She also commended Muslim-sponsored schools in the Western region for their impressive academic performance, attributing their success to effective collaboration among stakeholders in the education sector.
The Deputy Governor further praised MESWEP for its role in promoting Islamic Religious Education and Arabic studies alongside the national curriculum as she reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to supporting inclusive education and improving learning infrastructure. “I reaffirm the county government’s commitment to support inclusive education and improve learning infrastructure,’’ she said.
At the same event, MESWEP chairman and executive member of the Muslim Education Council (MEC), Dr. Hassan Ngeri applauded school principals and management boards for their dedication and hard work, which he said contributed to the outstanding performance of Muslim-sponsored schools. “We are happy that this time round, Muslim sponsored schools produced the highest number of students qualifying for direct university entry,’ he said.
The annual event, themed “Empowering Muslim Schools for Academic Excellence and Community Transformation,” aims to celebrate the achievements of Muslim schools in the counties of Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia and Vihiga.
This year’s gathering brought together 50 schools, approximately 1,500 students, 200 teachers, as well as school managers, religious leaders, parents, government education officials, development partners, and other community stakeholders.
As the only annual education forum in Kenya exclusively dedicated to Muslim-sponsored schools, the event provides a unique platform to celebrate achievements, inspire learners, recognize outstanding teachers, and promote Islamic Religious Education (IRE) and Arabic studies as key components of holistic education.
MESWEP, which is affiliated with the Muslim Education Council (MEC), works closely with Muslim education institutions across all levels—from pre-primary and primary to secondary and post-secondary institutions, including madrassas—supporting their growth and development.
Other speakers at the event included Nominated Senator Consolata Wakwabubi and MESWEP Vice-chairman Athman Wangara among others.