Sh1.5 million was raised during a charity walk held at Chogoria Girls High School to support needy and vulnerable students through the provision of school fees and learning materials.
The fundraiser attracted political leaders, education stakeholders, and members of the public who contributed through donations and the purchase of merchandise, including branded T-shirts, to support the initiative.
Speaking during the event, Maara MP Kareke Mbiuki emphasized the importance of ensuring that every child, particularly the girl child, has access to education regardless of their background.
Mbiuki also addressed the recent cases of unrest in schools, urging students to embrace dialogue and seek amicable solutions to challenges rather than resorting to destructive actions.
“This is a national event because the funds raised will support children from different parts of the country regardless of where they come from. I will contribute school fees worth Sh200,000 to support several girls and ensure they remain in school,” he said.
Tharaka Nithi Woman Representative Susan Ngugi noted that the government alone cannot guarantee access to education for every child and called for greater community involvement in supporting learners.
She encouraged institutions to adopt similar fundraising initiatives to help bridge financial gaps affecting students.
Ngugi also highlighted her efforts to support girls’ education through the distribution of sanitary towels and lobbying for teacher recruitment across the county’s constituencies.
“Every girl matters despite her background, race or ethnicity. That is why we are united in this noble cause to ensure that no student is denied an opportunity to learn because of financial challenges,” she said.
Ngugi further called for the establishment of open communication channels in schools to allow students to air their concerns without fear, saying such measures could help address the growing cases of unrest in learning institutions.
Chogoria Girls High School Chief Principal Elizabeth Mugambi said the funds raised would directly benefit needy students and help ensure that no learner is forced to drop out of school due to lack of fees.
“When a community comes together with a shared purpose, great things happen. Education is the greatest gift we can offer a child. Through this walk, we are giving hope and confidence to students who may otherwise be unable to realize their full potential because of financial constraints,” she said.
By Dickson Mwiti and Beatrice Mwende
