This archive report was first published on 11 January 2020.
On January 11, 2020, a remarkable story of determination and resilience emerged from Kakamega High School, where a 15-year-old pupil, George Ingatwa Atonya, had traveled from Sasimon village in Nandi Central to plead his case to join the school.
According to Principal Gerald Orina, Atonya had scored 390 marks in last year's Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exam and was expected to join Kakamega School. However, his family's poverty and hardship had threatened to derail his educational aspirations.
Undaunted by his circumstances, Atonya had left early and persuaded a boda-boda rider to take him to Kakamega Town, where he hoped to convince the principal to allow him to join the school.
When Principal Orina arrived at the office, the boda-boda rider asked him to pay the fare for the boy from his village to Kakamega before he could address the pupil's plight.
“This is how the whole drama unfolded, but we are happy that the boy got here safely and was courageous enough to take the risk that has brought to light his plight,” said Principal Orina.
Atonya's mother, Jesicah Chekuku, is sickly, and his sister, Irene Kabulika, was sent home for non-payment of school fees. Despite these challenges, Atonya's determination and bravery have left everyone in awe.
Shortly after the plight of the boy was highlighted on social media, the Kakamega School Old Boys Association pledged to support him. Mr. William Ojonyo said the old boys will adopt Atonya and seek support from other well-wishers to ensure he carries on with his secondary education.
