Muslim leaders in Homa Bay County have appealed to members of the Muslim community to support needy students who have qualified to join universities and colleges, saying financial hardship should not deny learners access to higher education.
Speaking during an education support initiative forum in Homa Bay town, SUPKEM County Secretary, Nuhu Abdul Masoud, congratulated students who had secured placements in universities and colleges across the country.
Masoud noted that while gaining admission into higher learning institutions is a significant achievement, many students are unable to enroll because of the high cost of tuition, accommodation and other essential learning materials.
He said the initiative is established to mobilize resources from members of the Muslim community and other well-wishers to ensure that students are able to pursue their academic dreams.
“We have taken it as our responsibility to look for ways of helping these students. Many have qualified to join universities, but some lack school fees, suitcases and other basic requirements. We are appealing to anyone willing to support them through financial contributions or donations of learning materials,” said Masoud.
“We have many different types of suitcases that we want to give to students who are joining various campuses” he added. This will help them in transforming their lives through education and easing burden to parents.
Masoud announced that a special fundraising will be held on July 31, 2026, at Governors Park in Homa Bay Town, bringing together well-wishers and members of Muslim community to raise support for students.
He said the programme would provide different forms of assistance depending on the needs of individual students, adding that every contribution would make a difference in helping young people access higher education.
He urged students who are preparing to join universities and colleges to remain focused on their studies and avoid activities that could jeopardize their education.
“Education is the key to a better future. Students should work hard, remain disciplined and concentrate on achieving their academic goals,” he said.
Masoud further cautioned young people against engaging in political violence or allowing themselves to be manipulated by politicians for unlawful activities.
Zenu Lawidin, a teacher in Homa Bay Mosque, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that would give hope to students.
Lawidin urged students to value education and remain committed to their studies. He also advised students not to be manipulated by politicians for they will lure them into violence or criminal acts saying such actions could destroy their education and future careers.
“If you allow yourself to be misused, you risk destroying your future. Students should protect their integrity and remain focused on their education.” He said.
Another elder, Ismael Loo, encouraged students to take education seriously, saying it opens opportunities for personal growth and economic empowerment.
He urged all learners joining institutions of higher learning to work hard and embrace education as a tool for transforming their lives.
“Education opens people’s eyes and prepares them for a better tomorrow. Every student should take the opportunity seriously because it will shape their future,” he said.
The leaders expressed optimism that with collective support from the Muslim community, more student would successfully join universities and colleges and eventually contribute to the country’s social and economic development.
By Barasa Irene and Davis Langat
