OLDORKO, MOSIRO – In the Kajiado West Constituency, a destitute boy from Oldorko, Mosiro, is seeking financial assistance to pursue secondary education. Dennis Kupai, a top student from Oldorko Primary School, achieved a remarkable score of 359 marks in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) last year. Despite his academic success, Kupai has been unable to join secondary school due to financial difficulties.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kupai, the son of an elderly widow, has been offered a place at Njoro Boys’ Secondary School in Nakuru. However, his mother, who works as a casual laborer, is unable to afford his educational expenses. A photograph taken by Diana Meneto shows Kupai and his mother, Ene ole Koikai, at their home in Oldorko. Not only did Kupai excel in his primary education, securing the top position in his class, but he was also the second-best student in the entire Mosiro ward.
Kupai’s mother, Ene Ole Koikai, expressed her struggle to provide for their basic needs through menial jobs. “I am appealing to anyone who can help admit him to secondary school. He was the best in his class, and I am sure he will change our situation once he gets an education,” Koikai stated.
Tom Ole Narok, a neighbor, highlighted Kupai’s potential, describing him as a bright and hardworking boy who could greatly improve his family’s circumstances with the right educational opportunity.
The family is open to assistance from well-wishers who can reach them at the mobile number 0708413489.
KEBIRIGO, NYAMIRA COUNTY – Mr. Clement Nyang’acha, currently serving as the principal of Kebirigo Boys Boarding Secondary School, marks his 20th year in the education sector with a distinctive approach to leadership and student engagement. Graduating from Kenyatta University in 1998, Nyang’acha began his career as the principal of a girls’ school and has since led several schools, demonstrating a unique commitment to his students.
According to Kenya News Agency, his journey in education has been shaped by his hands-on approach, including serving meals to students and fostering a close relationship with them. This practice began at his first posting in Isena girls’ secondary school in Kisii County, which had a small student population of 30. His dedication to student welfare saw him become the school’s first principal. Nyang’acha’s innovative methods have been a constant throughout his tenure at five different schools, including girls’, mixed, and boys-only institutions.
His career path has taken him through various challenges and successes. After a seven-year stint at Isena, Nyang’acha moved to Rigena PAG secondary school, then to Sameta Boys High School, where he dealt with significant challenges, including frequent arson incidents. His leadership helped revive the school’s population and standing. He then served at Ugenya Boys High School in Siaya County before his current position at Kebirigo Boys High School, where he initiated “Operation Grade A Lazinma” (OGAL). This initiative led to the school achieving two A grades in the last year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams, significantly boosting the school’s population.
Nyang’acha’s experience has also taught him valuable lessons in student management, particularly the differences in handling boys and girls. He has developed strategies to effectively engage with students, earning their trust and respect. His Deputy Principal Academics, James Ogari, acknowledges Nyang’acha’s unique and effective style of interacting with students.
Reflecting on his career, Nyang’acha notes the importance of humility and innovation in addressing young people’s challenges. His journey in education, which began right after attending Maji Mazuri PAG primary and secondary schools, has been a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of his students.