When Simon Odhiambo walked through the gates of St. Mary’s School Yala to join Grade 10, he carried little more than a small bag and an unshakeable belief in the power of education.
The bright student from Usigu Sub-county in Siaya County had reported to the national school with his mother, despite lacking even the most basic requirements needed for admission into the prestigious institution.
Simon scored an impressive 64 out of a possible 71 points in the Grade 9 assessment, a performance that earned him a place at St. Mary’s Yala in Gem Sub-county.
He had completed his studies at Got Matar Junior School, a modest village-level institution in Usigu, where teachers recall him as disciplined, focused, and consistently among the top performers despite limited learning resources.
On reporting day, the contrast between Simon’s academic success and his family’s economic reality was stark. He arrived wearing his former junior school uniform—a faded and torn blue sweater and trousers—while his mother carried a plastic bag containing only a few used books her son had relied on in the past. The school’s boarding requirements, which include a mattress, bedding, textbooks, and a uniform, were far beyond what the family could afford.
His mother, who survives on irregular menial jobs such as washing clothes and providing farm labour, openly admitted she could not raise the annual school fee of Sh42,000, let alone provide the required learning and boarding materials. Simon’s father, she said, is mentally unwell, leaving her as the sole provider for the family. Still, she chose to accompany her son to the school he had been called to, hoping that something—or someone—would come through.
News of Simon’s situation quickly spread after his story was shared on social media, where photos and accounts of the boy’s determination touched the hearts of many.
Well-wishers from different parts of the country began reaching out, offering financial support, school supplies, and words of encouragement, even calling on some politicians to step in and assist the boy.
Through the consolidated efforts of individuals, community groups, and donors who came across his plight online, Simon’s full school fees for the year were paid. He also received essential items for boarding and learning, including a mattress, uniform, books, and personal effects, ensuring he could settle into school like his peers.
The Principal at St. Mary’s Yala Mr. Victor Makanda, welcomed the support, noting that Simon’s case reflects the hidden struggles many talented learners face across the country.
He praised the well-wishers for stepping in at a critical moment and expressed hope that Simon’s journey would inspire continued investment in education for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Education stakeholders in Siaya County say the transition to Grade 10 has been particularly challenging for students from underprivileged families, with many forced to turn down placements in top schools due to financial constraints.
Some opt for institutions closer to home or delay joining altogether, highlighting the persistent gap between academic potential and economic reality.
For Simon, however, the story has taken a different turn—one defined by resilience, community support, and a renewed sense of possibility. As he settles into his new school environment, the once-needy student now stands as a symbol of courage and determination, a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming odds, hope can open doors and bring strangers together to change a young life’s trajectory.
By Calvin Otieno
