This archive report was first published on 14 January 2020.
Golden Hearts: Kenyans Rally Around Needy Students ¶
As the new academic year begins, many students from underprivileged backgrounds face a daunting challenge: affording school fees. However, the kindness of strangers has brought hope to these young minds.
One such story is that of Levis Otieno Rabah, a 13-year-old who sat for his KCPE exams in 2019. Despite scoring over 400 marks, Levis's future seemed uncertain due to his family's financial struggles. His mother, carrying an almost empty metal suitcase, accompanied him to Kanga High School, where he hoped to continue his education.
Thanks to the efforts of media personality Jalang'o, who highlighted Levis's story on air, the young boy's fate took a dramatic turn. Quick Mart, a chain of supermarkets, promised to cater for his first term school fees, and the post went viral, inspiring others to contribute to his education.
Levis's story is just one of many that have touched the hearts of Kenyans. Akothee, a musician-cum-businesswoman, has also made headlines for her generosity. She, along with two other well-wishers, has teamed up to enable a 13-year-old girl to study at the school of her dreams and achieve her goals.
Other notable examples of kindness include Grandpa founder and CEO Refiggah, who has offered to sponsor Kibra's top KCPE student, Odhiambo Dickens Omondi, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who has reached out to a student whose plight was highlighted on TV.
These stories serve as a reminder of the power of kindness and generosity. As one Kenyan put it, 'We should get her mother's restaurant running so she can afford a few girly things for her daughter.' Indeed, the ripple effect of these acts of kindness can have a profound impact on the lives of these young students.
As the academic year unfolds, it will be interesting to see how these stories continue to unfold. One thing is certain, however: the kindness of strangers has brought hope to these young minds, and their futures look brighter than ever.
