Kakuma: The County Department of Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) and Social Protection, along with the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), have initiated discussions to formally transfer 13 pre-primary education centers in Kakuma refugee camp to the County Government.
According to Kenya News Agency, Chief Officer for ECDE and Social Protection Paul Lodunga expressed appreciation for LWF's continued support in strengthening ECDE in the County. He welcomed the integration of these facilities into the county education system, noting that it aligns with the Shirika Plan of Integration. Mr. Lodunga emphasized the importance of intersectoral collaboration, especially with water and health departments, to ensure the provision of essential educational infrastructure such as classrooms and sanitation facilities.
LWF Area Manager Caroline Wainaina highlighted the need for a structured roadmap to guide the handover process after the current four-year support period concludes. She stressed the importance of ensuring continuity of education even in the absence of donor funding, stating that the handover is a testament to their commitment to inclusive integration, with centers open to all learners.
The meeting also featured a plenary session reviewing the status of ECDE centers across both the County and the Kakuma refugee camp. Discussions focused on existing capacities, challenges facing the ECDE sector, and the sustainability of the school feeding program as part of incorporating the 13 additional centers.
With the County currently managing 1,105 ECDE centers, participants highlighted the urgency of improving the teacher-to-student ratio and addressing infrastructural deficits. The session concluded with a call to develop a comprehensive roadmap to ensure sustained learner retention and quality education post-transition.
Key stakeholders present at the meeting included KNUT Turkana Secretary General Peter Ewaat, representatives from the LWF education technical lead Baaqir Khadija, LWF team, Sub-County Education Directors, and Ward Education Officers.