This archive report was first published on 20 September 2019.
On a daily basis, Gilbert Otieng', a 16-year-old boy from Teso South constituency in Busia County, embarks on a grueling journey to attend St Dominic Aderema Primary School. Despite being unable to walk or stand, Otieng' crawls for two miles to and from school, a feat that has earned him recognition for his unwavering determination.
Published on September 20, 2019, Otieng's remarkable story is one of hope and courage in the face of adversity. His parents, though unable to afford a wheelchair, have not deterred him from pursuing his education.
According to his mother, Rose Apali, Otieng' became paralyzed at the age of five. Despite the challenges, Otieng' has insisted on attending school, a decision that has been met with admiration from his community.
"Otieng' got disabled when he was five years old. Since then, things have never been the same for my son," said Ms Apali in an interview.
With a dream to become a doctor, Otieng' has been attending his classes without fail, regardless of the weather. His favorite subjects are Science, English, and Mathematics.
The family would be grateful for any assistance from well-wishers to enable Otieng' to join a school for the disabled or acquire a wheelchair.
