•Hundreds Join Effort to Raise Funds for Kabarnet School for Deafblind
Baringo County witnessed an overwhelming show of solidarity as hundreds of people participated in a five-kilometer charity walk aimed at supporting pupils from Kabarnet School for the Deafblind.
The event, themed “Touch a Deafblind Child with Love this Valentine,” was organized by the county government in collaboration with well-wishers to raise funds for the school, which is grappling with multiple challenges, including inadequate food supply, water shortages, lack of sanitation facilities, and unpaid fees for learners.
The walk commenced at Kasoiyo trading center in Baringo Central and culminated at the school grounds, where various stakeholders, leaders, and community members reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the institution and the special needs of its students.
Governor Calls for Collective Responsibility
Leading the walk, Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi underscored the significance of the initiative, stating that it symbolized love and compassion toward some of the most vulnerable members of society.
He emphasized the potential of deaf-blind children and their right to quality education, calling for a concerted effort from all sectors to ensure they receive the same opportunities as their peers.
“It is our collective responsibility as both levels of government, various institutions, partners, and individuals to bridge this gap by supporting deaf-blind children to access quality education, which is their right,” said Governor Cheboi.
He further urged the Ministry of Education to increase capitation to the school to facilitate its operations, enhance learning conditions, and address the delayed salaries of teachers and staff who have dedicated themselves to educating the children despite the many challenges they face.
MP Pledges School Bus for Learners
Baringo Central MP Joshua Kandie also pledged his support, announcing plans to collaborate with fellow legislators from the county to deliver a school bus for the institution.
The bus, he noted, would significantly improve the mobility of learners, easing their access to education and extracurricular activities.
At the same time, MP Kandie encouraged parents to enroll their deafblind children in the school, assuring them that the institution is well-equipped to provide the necessary support to help them advance in their education.
Institution Plans for Self-Sustainability
The school’s principal, Ms. Salina Binot, expressed gratitude to all who participated and contributed to making the event a success.
She noted that the support received would go a long way in catering to the essential needs of the nearly 100 pupils at the institution.
Ms. Binot also highlighted the school’s future plans, revealing that they intend to invest in extensive agricultural activities as a means of generating income and working toward self-sustainability.
She urged continued support from stakeholders to ensure the children’s needs are met.
A Call for More Support
The charity walk served as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion and the need for continued support for children with disabilities.
With the backing of government officials, well-wishers, and the community, the Kabarnet School for the Deafblind now has a stronger foundation to provide its learners with a conducive environment for education and personal growth.
The event concluded with renewed calls for partnerships and long-term strategies to address the pressing challenges faced by the institution, ensuring that every child, regardless of their abilities, has access to quality education and a promising future.
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