By KPC Reporter
For years, West Mugirango Constituency’s Otanyore Secondary School stood as a symbol of determination in the face of hardship.
Learners squeezed into inadequate classrooms, teachers worked with limited facilities, and parents held onto hope that one day the school would receive the transformation it deserved.
That long-awaited moment finally arrived on Friday.
Parents, students, teachers, and local leaders gathered at the school in Bogichora Ward, as the first steps toward a Ksh 56 million facelift officially began.
Funded by the M-Pesa Foundation, the project is expected to transform the once modest institution into a modern learning centre.
It will be equipped with new classrooms, science laboratories, an ICT hub, administration offices, a kitchen block, improved sanitation facilities, water tanks, and fencing.
The atmosphere at the ceremony felt more like the rebirth of a community dream than an ordinary groundbreaking event.
Area MP Stephen Mogaka described the project as a major turning point for learners who had persevered under difficult conditions for many years.
“This school has carried the dreams of many children despite difficult circumstances,” he said.
“Seeing it finally receive the kind of investment that creates dignity and opportunity for learners is truly fulfilling.”
He noted that the upgrade would create a modern and technology-driven learning environment capable of competing with leading institutions across the county.
“We want our students to learn science and technology in spaces that inspire confidence and excellence,” he added.
Nominated MP Irene Mayaka said the project goes beyond constructing buildings.
“This is about restoring confidence in rural education,” she said.
“A child from Otanyore deserves the same quality learning environment as any other child in the country.”
The project is expected to take between six and eight months to complete and will also include furniture, fully equipped laboratories, ablution blocks, and improved water storage systems.
Mayaka further announced that at least 70 percent of the jobs during construction would be reserved for local youth.
The statement drew cheers and applause from residents gathered at the site.
Many remained behind long after the ceremony, discussing the possibilities the new-look school could bring to the area.
Representing the foundation, Project Manager Sam Chege praised the community for sustaining the school over the years despite numerous challenges.
“We are not starting a dream here,” he said.
“We are joining a journey that this community began long ago.”