This archive report was first published on 28 December 2019.
On December 28, 2019, a heart-wrenching story emerged of a 13-year-old KCPE candidate from Nyalenda Slums in Kisumu who threatened to take her life due to lack of school fees.
According to reports, the girl had scored 391 marks and was called to join the prestigious Asumbi Girls, but her humble parents were unable to raise the Ksh 53,544 fee required for the year.
‘I know it is not the only way to solve this problem, but it is the best option for me to take,’ read the suicide note.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who has firsthand experience of the hardships faced by young people in Nyalenda slums, came to the girl's rescue, pledging to pay her school fees.
‘I will pay school fees for this learner to ensure she achieves her dreams. A child belongs to the community and I would like to give an opportunity to others the same way I was given through fundraising and through selling Chang’aa,’ reads a message on Babu’s Facebook Page.
Babu Owino has been a vocal advocate for the rights of Kenyan youth, particularly on issues of unemployment and HELB loans.
