On 20 November 2018, a 13-year-old boy from Thika appealed for help to secure a place at Starehe Boys Centre after posting 373 marks in the KCPE exam.
Emanuel Odhiambo, who studied at FRIMA School in Kiganjo Estate, Thika, said he hoped to continue with his education and later train as an architect. He said the death of his mother last year left him struggling emotionally, and at one point he considered dropping out of school.
Odhiambo said support from his teachers and aunt helped him push on. “I was, however, encouraged by my teachers and auntie and I decided to work hard so that I can succeed and in future, I can support my three siblings. All I plead for is for well-wishers to assist me realise my dreams,” he said.
His aunt, Emily Otieno, said she could not afford the fees needed for his preferred school because she has no formal job. “I surely can’t raise fees for his dream school since I’ve no formal job. Only well wishers can support him,” she said.
FRIMA School proprietor Fridah Marangu said Odhiambo had been sponsored through to his KCPE sitting. She described him as a bright pupil who responded well to counselling and worked hard in class.
“When he was brought to me by his aunt, I saw that he was a bright and promising boy. We counselled him and he did well in his studies,” Marangu said.
Odhiambo’s case reflects the financial strain many bright pupils face after primary school, especially when family support is limited and sponsorship ends before secondary education begins.
