Kisii County Senator Richard Onyonka has encouraged children from disadvantaged backgrounds to remain confident in their abilities and work hard to excel in examinations, stressing that education remains the most reliable path to success.
Speaking in Ogembo town during an Alternative Government public sensitization forum, Onyonka reminded learners that many leaders and professionals rose from humble beginnings through determination and academic achievement. He cited his own journey, recalling how he studied at Nyansara Day Secondary School in Bomachoge Chache Constituency, then joined Kisii School and later advanced to university.
“Do not assume that those of us in leadership were born into wealth. We endured hardships, worked faithfully, and persevered to reach where we are today,” he told the gathering.
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Onyonka, who previously served as area MP for Kitutu Chache before being elected Senator, praised teachers and students in Kisii for their commitment, noting the region’s strong performance in the 2025 KCSE examinations. He said learners from the county consistently shine both locally and nationally, proving their academic potential.
The Senator urged students to aim higher, not only to complete university courses but also to aspire to leadership positions. He pointed to the tradition of Kisii scholars rising to national prominence, mentioning his late father Dr. Zachary Onyonka, Prof. Sam Ongeri, Dr. Fred Matiang’i, Dr. Ezekiel Machogu, and the current Cabinet Secretary, Julius Ogamba, as examples of excellence.
Onyonka also challenged teachers to consider elective leadership roles, arguing that their firsthand experience of the challenges in the education sector equips them to champion economic and social reforms. He cited historical figures such as Julius Nyerere, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, and John Magufuli, who transitioned from teaching careers to become presidents, as proof that educators can rise to the highest offices.
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He emphasized that teachers should not shy away from leadership, noting that starting small could eventually place them in positions of national influence. “Teachers understand the struggles of ordinary citizens. If they step into leadership, they can better represent and advocate for their communities,” he said.
By Enock Okong’o
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