BWOMANGA: Auditor's revelation of how NG-CDF bursary funds vanish into thin air
A pencil used by learners. File photo
Education is the foundation of progress, the bridge to opportunity, and the spark that ignites dreams.
But what happens when funds meant to nurture these dreams are mismanaged, misallocated, or simply vanish into thin air? That is the sobering reality surrounding the millions of shillings in National Government-Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) bursaries that have recently come under scrutiny.
The Auditor General's findings reveal shocking instances of mismanagement in the disbursement of CDF bursaries.
From payments made to ‘ghost schools’ and ineligible recipients, to alarming gaps in documentation, the irregularities have highlighted a glaring lack of transparency.
As millions remain unaccounted for, deserving students face the devastating impact of this failure--a loss of opportunities that could have changed their lives forever.
NG-CDF bursaries are designed to uplift students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, enabling them to access education and create a brighter future. Yet, the misuse of these funds threatens the very essence of this noble initiative.
It diminishes public trust in governance and undermines the education sector--a pillar of national development.
The time for accountability is now. Authorities must act swiftly to investigate these irregularities and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Stricter checks and controls must be implemented to ensure that bursary funds reach the students who need them most.
Without decisive action, we risk allowing corruption and negligence to trample on the dreams of our youth.
The power of education is transformative. It is a promise of a better tomorrow. But that promise is fragile--and if mismanagement continues unchecked, we risk breaking it beyond repair.
Let us call upon leaders to restore integrity, transparency, and equity to the NG-CDF bursary system.
Our students deserve nothing less than the full support of the resources meant to empower their futures.
By Nyangenya Bwomanga - Eminent Peace Ambassador - UN
