Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”. Passing the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination is the joy of every candidate and every parent. Securing admission to the University is the ultimate dream of every candidate especially the girl child. However, this joy is short lived for some students especially those from humble backgrounds who cannot afford to pay fees and meet the cost of their basic needs. There are those who take the bold step of faith and join the University, there are also those who decide to remain at home. Those who decide to join University amidst all odds eventually complete their studies and
graduate.
Kibabii University led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo has taken the initiative of supporting students who come from needy backgrounds by among others; supporting them in the payment of their fees, food and other basic needs. This is done through personal contributions that are done by members of staff either in cash or personal effects, the Needy Students Fund under the Dean of Students among others. This has contributed to a good number of students successfully completing their studies within the required period. This however has not been smooth since some students fear opening up about the challenges they are encountering at home and at the University; this is according to the Dean of Students, Dr. Alice Mutai.
A conversation with a few beneficiaries indicates the weight of what the support means to their lives. One of the students, Janet (not her real name), said that her life had been so difficult, she has had to do different types of menial jobs including washing clothes for fellow students to afford a meal and other basic necessities. She wholeheartedly appreciates the support of KIBU Staff as this noble gesture enabled her to concentrate on her studies and record a positive performance.
Kibabii University female staff, ‘KIBU LADIES’ has lived true to the phrase, “No woman should climb the ladder alone but should tag another along”. In this regard, there have been initiatives by the group towards supporting the female students through; counselling and mentorship programs, feeding program, donation of clothes and financial support for those with pressing needs.
The latest initiative is the periodical distribution of sanitary towels where the group contributes money to allow our female students access this basic commodity. This was based on research by Menstrual Hygiene Day, a global advocacy platform for Non-Profit Organizations and government agencies to promote menstrual health that shows that 65% of women and girls in Kenya are unable to afford sanitary towels. This initiative has witnessed a number of cartons of sanitary towels delivered to the Dean of Students to support needy female students in the University.
Success can be achieved if we are confident enough to take the bold step!
