By Wasike Elvis
Likuyani Member of Parliament, Hon. Innocent Mugabe, has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to improving education in his constituency by commissioning a series of new classrooms and renovations to enhance learning environments. The latest developments include the construction and handover of modern Junior Secondary School (JSS) classrooms aimed at supporting the transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
On Monday, Hon. Mugabe officially opened two new JSS classrooms at St. Charles Lwanga Primary in Sinoko Ward. The classrooms feature terrazzo flooring and ceiling board finishes, which he described as essential for improving the durability and comfort of the learning spaces. This initiative is part of his broader vision to ensure that every student has access to high-quality education in an environment conducive to learning.
"This aligns directly with my commitment to enhancing our schools' infrastructure to support the smooth implementation of the CBC curriculum," said Mugabe. "We want to create an environment where students are not only equipped with the necessary knowledge but also have access to modern facilities that will make their learning experience more enjoyable and productive."
At Muruli Primary School, Hon. Mugabe handed over two additional modern classrooms, specifically built for the JSS students in Grade 8 and 9. He stressed the importance of ensuring adequate classroom space for the increasing number of students who are transitioning into secondary education as a result of the expanded CBC curriculum. "Our focus is to ensure that we have enough classrooms for the growing number of Grade 8 and 9 students. This is crucial for ensuring that our children receive quality education," he emphasized.
The MP also marked another milestone with the opening of four new JSS classrooms at Mapera Comprehensive School. Two of these classrooms were funded by the Likuyani National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), while the other two were funded by the Ministry of Education. The completion of these classrooms is a direct reflection of Hon. Mugabe’s #ElimuKwanza mantra, which focuses on modernizing education infrastructure within Likuyani. This approach aims to ensure that all schools in the constituency have the necessary facilities to offer high-quality education.
"Education remains the key to unlocking opportunities for our young people. Through the #ElimuKwanza initiative, we are prioritizing the development of education infrastructure so that our schools can meet the demands of the 21st century," Mugabe said.
In addition to commissioning these new classrooms, Hon. Mugabe took a strong stand against the practice of demanding school fees for JSS students. "I have issued a clear directive that comprehensive school principals must stop requesting school fees from parents for JSS students. The Ministry of Education has provided sufficient capitation to ensure that the transition to Grade 9 is fully funded," he asserted. His call for accountability was well-received, as parents have expressed concerns over the additional financial burden that some schools have placed on families.
The day’s events were attended by key local leaders, including MCAs Hon. Kennedy Lutilo (Sango), Hon. Anthony Mix (Sinoko), and Ms. Christine Sifuna, the Sub-county Director of the Ministry of Education. Their participation underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between local government, the Ministry of Education, and the community in enhancing education.
Hon. Mugabe also highlighted the renovation of 10 classrooms at Nangili Comprehensive School, which were made possible through funding from the Likuyani NG-CDF. The renovation was part of a broader effort to upgrade existing school facilities and ensure that all classrooms meet modern standards. "We are not just building new classrooms; we are also renovating existing ones to make sure they are safe, comfortable, and conducive to learning," Mugabe explained.
Looking ahead, the MP outlined plans for the construction of an additional 81 classrooms within the constituency to support the transition to Grade 9 under the CBC. These new classrooms will be crucial in accommodating the expanding student population and ensuring that no child is left behind in the educational process.
"We are determined to create a learning environment where every child in Likuyani can access quality education," Mugabe said. "The construction of new classrooms, the renovation of old ones, and the provision of modern facilities are all part of a long-term strategy to ensure that our children have the best possible chance to succeed in life."
With the support of the Ministry of Education and local leadership, Likuyani is making significant strides in transforming its educational landscape. The developments serve as a clear demonstration of the MP’s commitment to improving the lives of students in the region and ensuring that they are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world. As the constituency continues to grow, Hon. Mugabe’s focus on education promises to have a lasting and positive impact on the future of many young learners in Likuyani.