Members of the public have rallied together to raise funds for a bright but needy student from Narok County after his dream of joining Tenwek Boys High School was threatened by poverty.
Elkana Kipngeno, a disciplined and hardworking learner from Simotwet Village in Ololmasani Ward, Emurua Dikirr Constituency, walked to his dream school empty-handed after his physically disabled father failed to raise school fees.
His determination and courage touched many, prompting well-wishers to step in and offer support.
Following public appeals, a good Samaritan has promised to fully pay Elkana’s school fees.
However, the boy still lacks basic school requirements, including shopping and bedding, which are estimated to cost about Ksh 17,000.
In response, members of the public have resolved to conduct an online fundraising drive to enable him to report to school with dignity.
Elkana earned admission to the prestigious Tenwek Boys High School after posting impressive results at Simotwet Junior School.
His selection is seen as a rare opportunity to nurture exceptional academic potential. However, his family has been facing severe financial hardship.
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His father, Moses Koech Arap Lasoi, is physically disabled and unable to engage in gainful employment.
The family is already stretched thin, supporting several children in school, including one studying at Kisii University and others in secondary schools.
On Tuesday, Education News highlighted Elkana’s plight, sparking wider public attention and calls for intervention.
An appeal was also made to Tenwek Boys High School Chief Principal, Simon Mutali Chesebe, to consider bursary support or a flexible payment arrangement.
“Elkana has done his part—he studied, passed, and qualified. What he now needs is a chance,” reads part of a heartfelt appeal written by a local teacher.
Acts of kindness continue to inspire hope.
Gratitude has been expressed to Robert Rono of Angata, who donated a pair of school shoes to Elkana as he prepares to begin his secondary school journey.
Community members and education stakeholders are now urging collective action, saying Elkana’s story is a reminder that with compassion and unity, poverty should never stand in the way of a deserving child’s education.
By Philip Koech
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