A local lobby group, the Gitugi Development Initiative (GDI), is rallying residents, professionals, and stakeholders to support academically gifted learners whose families cannot afford school fees. The initiative aims to ensure poverty does not derail the educational ambitions of bright but needy students. GDI was established 13 years ago to give these children an opportunity to complete their education.
The GDI founder, Judy Kiunga, stated that the initiative has so far sponsored more than 300 learners in various levels of education, including universities, colleges, and senior schools. She challenged professionals from Gitugi and the wider Mathioya community to give back by supporting children from their rural homes. Kiunga emphasized that collective responsibility could transform the lives of deserving learners.
GDI Chairperson, Prof. Benson Mwangi, said the initiative seeks to address financial barriers that prevent students from completing secondary education or joining universities despite their good academic performance. He noted that some families struggle to meet secondary school fees, while others cannot afford the high cost of university education. Mwangi appealed to the government to review university tuition costs to make higher education accessible to students from low-income households.
The initiative recently held a walking challenge to mobilize resources and strengthen local participation in supporting needy students. The event brought together community members, and GDI is optimistic about the impact of the increased community support. Local leaders and stakeholders have pledged their support for the initiative, recognizing the importance of education in transforming lives and communities.
Gitugi Member of the County Assembly (MCA), Edwin Wairagu, pledged to champion educational opportunities for deserving learners. He described education as a powerful tool for transforming lives and communities. Wairagu emphasized that education is key to unlocking the potential of individuals and communities.
A parent, Beth Maina, expressed concern about the rising cost of living, which has made it increasingly difficult for rural households to meet school expenses. She urged more organizations and well-wishers to support families struggling to educate their children. The GDI has received support from organizations such as the Zalika Africa Foundation.
The Zalika Africa Foundation contributed Sh. 80,000 towards the GDI education fundraising drive and announced 10 scholarship opportunities for young people seeking practical skills training. The scholarships will be offered through Zalika Africa Institute in Westlands, Nairobi, for courses in caregiving and nursing assistance. The partnership adds to GDI’s efforts to mobilize community resources and ensure that financial hardships do not deny bright children from rural households the opportunity to fully achieve their academic potential.
Key points
- The Gitugi Development Initiative has sponsored over 300 learners in various levels of education.
- The initiative aims to address financial barriers that prevent students from completing secondary education or joining universities.
- The Zalika Africa Foundation contributed Sh. 80,000 and announced 10 scholarship opportunities for young people seeking practical skills training.
