Successful people in society have been urged to give back and support development projects in primary and secondary schools they once went through.
Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) Homa Bay chairman Dickens Bula and Homa Bay High School Principal Vincent Mayienga argued that many learning institutions in Nyanza region are struggling with limited resources yet various alumni are well endowed individuals.
They said financial constraints affect normal school operations, including accommodation, meals, infrastructure and other learning materials.
“Assistance must not be in the form of large sums of money. One can motivate learners through a talk,” he said.
Speaking during the Homa Bay High School Alumni reunion, Bula said former students of various schools can contribute and make changes in their former schools.
At Homa Bay High School, some former students have started the construction of a Ksh600 million library and resource centre.
The group has also been involved in various education initiatives, including infrastructural development and student mentorship.
Bula said former students should make it a routine to visit their former schools and talk to students about career goals.
“Words of encouragement can make students to stay positive towards life and improve their academic performance,” he said.
Bula said there is a proposal to have school boards made up of alumni because former students understand the challenges that the institutions have and can come up with ideas of addressing the problems.
Mayienga said the school has been receiving books donated by former students.
The association chairman Fred Nyawade said they are involved in various activities, including sponsoring students, members’ welfare and networking sessions.
He said it is significant for former students to support their former school, adding that the work of developing schools should not be left to the government alone.
“Let’s support schools by giving books and other learning materials. Let schools count on former students for support because what the government provides is never enough,” he said.
Former Supreme Court Judge Jackton Ojwang was among former students who attended the meeting.
By Fredrick Odiero
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