By Violet Auma.
A group of former students from Kakamega High School are proving that true success is measured not just by personal achievements but by the impact one makes on others.
Driven by gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility, the alumni have come together to give back to their alma mater in ways that are transforming lives.
Their most impactful initiative so far is the sponsorship of 25 bright but needy students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their education.
“We know the struggles that some of these students face because many of us went through the same challenges,” says William Ojonyo, one of the alumni leading the initiative. “Education opened doors for us, and we want to ensure these students have the same opportunities we had.”
Besides paying school fees, the alumni extend their generosity by purchasing uniforms, providing upkeep, and offering mentorship programs within the school.
Through these initiatives, they hope to not only lighten the financial burden on students but also inspire them to work hard and dream big.
“We don’t just want to be benefactors; we want to be role models,” says Ojonyo. “We visit the school regularly, interact with the students, and guide them on career choices, personal development, and how to navigate life’s challenges.”
Education is not the only focus of this philanthropic group. In a bid to improve student welfare, the alumni recently undertook the renovation of some of the school’s dormitories, enhancing living conditions for hundreds of students.
“Our time at Kakamega High shaped us into who we are today,” notes Maina, one of the engineers who led the renovation project. “This is our way of saying thank you and ensuring that the students who come after us also get the best experience possible.”
The school administration has lauded the alumni’s efforts, with the principal, Dr. Julius Mambili, expressing deep appreciation. “Their generosity is not only helping individual students but also uplifting the entire school community,” he says.
For many students benefiting from the program, the impact is life-changing. One such student is George Ingatwa, who walked over 100 kilometers to join the school with nothing but an admission letter.
Hailing from Nandi County, Ingatwa faced financial challenges that threatened to cut short his education.
However, with the alumni’s support, he was able to continue his studies at Kakamega High School.
Ingatwa, now a first-year student at Dedan Kimathi University, expresses his gratitude. “I was on the verge of dropping out due to financial difficulties. Now, I can focus on my studies without worrying about school fees or basic needs. I am truly grateful.”
A true hallmark of Kakamega High School is its legendary football team, the Green Commandos.
As the only high school team participating in Kenya’s national football league, the Green Commandos hold a special place in the hearts of the alumni.
Recognizing the team’s potential, the alumni offer financial and material support to ensure that the players have access to quality training, equipment, and opportunities to compete at higher levels.
Beyond financial aid and infrastructural support, mentorship remains a crucial aspect of the alumni’s involvement.
Seasoned professionals, including doctors, engineers, lawyers, journalists, and entrepreneurs, frequently engage with students, guiding them on career choices, leadership, and personal development.
Through these interactions, they inspire the younger generation to dream big and strive for excellence.
The alumni team is now calling on more former students to join their noble cause. With increased support, they believe they can assist even more students, ensuring that financial constraints do not stand in the way of academic and sporting excellence at Kakamega High School.
As the alumni continue to uplift their alma mater, their efforts serve as a beacon of hope and an inspiring example of how giving back can transform lives and sustain the legacy of a great institution.
Their vision is to expand their reach, support more students, and continue improving the school’s facilities.
In a world where many often forget where they came from, the Kakamega High School alumni are setting an example worth emulating.
Their story is a testament to the power of collective goodwill and the lasting impact of giving back to the community that shaped them.
