The governments of Laikipia and Garissa counties have entered into an intergovernmental agreement with Kenya's Ministry of Education to streamline the issuance of bursaries and scholarships. Signed on May 8, 2025, the deal aims to enhance transparency and equitable access to education. This follows similar partnerships in other counties amid calls for centralized distribution.
Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu and Garissa Governor Nathif Aden announced the agreement in a gazette notice, highlighting its role in fostering collaboration between national and county levels. The partnership, dated May 8, 2025, focuses on managing bursaries and scholarships to ensure transparency and accountability in their utilization.
The notice states: "IT IS notified for the general information of the public that pursuant to the provisions of Article 187 of the Constitution of Kenya, sections 6, 34 and 36 of the County Governments Act, section 26 of the Intergovernmental Relations Act, that the National Government through the Ministry of Education and the County Government of Garissa have entered into an Intergovernmental Partnership Agreement dated the 8th May, 2025, on issuance of bursaries and scholarships."
According to the governors, the framework will guide equitable issuance, promote inclusive education, and facilitate resource sharing in service delivery. This initiative builds on a similar deal with Kisumu and Marsabit counties, confirmed by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba in a gazette notice on October 31, 2025. Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o and Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali signed that agreement to broaden support for vulnerable learners in basic education, vocational training, and universities.
Ogamba noted: "The Parties shall consult, cooperate and support each other as appropriate in the development and implementation of programmes in education and training, specifically, in the issuance of bursaries and scholarships within the County."
The moves come amid broader debates this year, where Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang'o advocated for centralizing bursary distribution to improve equity, though county officials have opposed it.