Schools in Taita Taveta to benefit from mobile library initiative

A new mobile library initiative in Taita Taveta County aims to improve access to books and bolster academic performance in primary and secondary schools. The project unites the Kenya National Library Service, Elimu Fanaka, teachers' unions KNUT and KUPPET, and other education stakeholders. Former Taita Taveta Governor Engineer John Mruttu highlighted that insufficient access to learning materials has led to poor academic results in several schools across the county.

Speaking at the initiative's launch, Mruttu explained that the programme will allow schools to access books without the need for fully equipped libraries. Schools participating in the programme will receive books via a mobile library system, which they will return after an agreed period, allowing other schools to benefit. Initially targeting 21 schools, the plan has since expanded to cover 46 schools - 10 additional schools pledged by former Women Representative Joyce Lay, and 15 more supported by Principal Secretary Shadrack Mwadime.

The initiative's importance was emphasized by Kenya National Library Service Director General Dr. Charles Nzivo, who described it as a significant step towards enhancing education outcomes. Teachers from KNUT and KUPPET also attended the launch, stressing the crucial role of reading in improving learning outcomes. Mruttu urged the county government to consider establishing libraries in each constituency, and requested that beneficiary schools take good care of the books to maximize the program's impact.

The mobile library initiative arrives as schools adapt to changes in Kenya's education curriculum, with reading and access to learning resources remaining integral to effective learning.