NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 26 – Over 1,650 learners at Karen C Comprehensive School have received shoes donated through a First Lady Rachel Ruto initiative aimed at promoting dignity and inclusivity in education.
While handing over the donation, Mrs Ruto emphasized the importance of ensuring that every child is able to attend school with confidence and dignity.
“For many grandparents, shoes were a luxury, often reserved for special occasions or later stages of education. Today, we sometimes take them for granted. This moment reminds us how far we have come and the importance of ensuring every child walks into their future with dignity,” she said.
The First Lady noted that the initiative is part of the Voice of Children programme, which regularly supports learners across the country with school supplies and essential needs.
“Today’s donation falls under our provision pillar. It reflects our commitment to responding to practical needs that help children learn, grow, and thrive. When we invest in children, we invest in Kenya’s future,” she added.
Mrs Ruto also reiterated President William Ruto’s commitment to strengthening education and child welfare programmes, noting that investing in children remains a national priority.
“When you put on these shoes tomorrow morning, let them remind you of responsibility. Walk into school ready to learn with discipline, honesty, integrity, and hard work. Let your school motto, ‘Study to Ascend,’ guide you,” she said.
The Voice of Children initiative is anchored on three pillars: Provision, Protection, and Participation, aimed at ensuring children are supported, safe, and empowered to express themselves.
Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture and Children Services, Hon. Hanna Cheptumo, urged respect for children’s right to education, calling for their safety during public demonstrations.
“Even as citizens exercise their right to picket, we must ensure children and women are protected. Children should go to school and return home safely,” she said.
She further noted that the government continues to prioritize education, citing a budget allocation of Sh781 billion to the sector.
Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor (Jalang’o) commended the First Lady’s gesture, saying it restores dignity and confidence among learners.
“This goes beyond shoes; it is about restoring dignity and giving children confidence,” he said.
Principal Secretary for Education, Dr John Ololtuaa, said the donation will support teaching and learning and pledged continued collaboration with the First Lady’s initiatives.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted learning and called on stakeholders to support government education programmes.
