- The event brought together university students from across the county to discuss and motivate young scholars in school on how to be responsible both in academics and the environment.
- Through compelling stories of triumph over adversity, the speakers illuminated the transformative power of education as a catalyst for change.
- The Nduru Girls student leadership, under the stewardship of Yvonne Maximillian, requested the South Mugirango Member of Parliament, Sylvanus Osoro, to chip in and support the students in terms of fee payment.
The Kisii County University and Colleges Students Association (KCUCSA), in coordination with the South Mugirango University Students’ Association (SOMUSA), held a harmonious blend of environmental stewardship and education empowerment summit on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at Nduru Boys and Nduru Girls grounds.
The summit
Organized by Ragira Kelvin, SOMUSA President, hosted by Moemi Kevin, SOMUSA Coordinator, the event focused on motivating and empowering young minds, accompanied by a momentous tree planting campaign that instilled a sense of environmental responsibility and accountability.
The event brought together university students from across the county to discuss and motivate young scholars in high school on how to be responsible both in academics and the environment.
The summit’s chief guest was Dennis Sagini, the KCUCSA President, accompanied by Gorffly Mokua, KCUCSA Secretary General.
Upon arrival, Sagini was received by SOMUSA leadership before being led to meet students of Nduru Boys and Girls for a pep talk before proceeding to plant trees at the schools’ grounds.
The occasion was also graced by the presence of Brian Matara, founder of SOMUSA; Ruth Nyaboke, vice chair KCUCSA; Sarah Kabesa, SOMUSA Academic Secretary; Obita Edward, representative Getenga Ward;
Jonathan Ogindi, representative Bogetenga ward; Mogesi Belden, legal advisor SOMUSA; Moraa Eunice, ass. representative Bogetenga ward; Makori Enock, former academic secretary;
Billy Atebe, former president of SOMUSA; and Shyla Kerubo, director of women and children at the Gusii youth movement.
The motivational talk, held at Nduru Girls High School auditorium, commenced with an eloquent address that captivated the audience with their impassioned words, highlighting the importance of education as a catalyst for personal growth, community development, and nation-building.
“Have you ever asked yourself what you have achieved?
I know that we have the notion that sciences and mathematics are difficult and only for men. No, let us wake up and do our best.
Don’t wait to be pushed to go for your dream. Also, have a role model who inspires you, and I’m sure you will finally make it. Believe in yourself,” said Ms. Nyaboke.
Pursuing excellence
Adding on the same, Sagini stated, “Education is the equalizer that unlocks countless opportunities.
We stand united today to inspire you; our fellow students, dream big, work hard, and pursue excellence in your academic journey.”
He challenged the SOMUSA president to organize for ladies to get sanitary pads so that those who are challenged to have them can get a conducive environment for studies.
He further promised to organize support for form fours to get geometric sets so that tackling arithmetics would be easier for them.
“Passing is a process but not an event. Therefore, let’s work smart. As student leaders we will support you with all resources that will be available to ensure great performance,” highlighted Moemi.
Through compelling stories of triumph over adversity, the speakers illuminated the transformative power of education as a catalyst for change.
Dedication and sacrifice
They emphasized the importance of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of knowledge as stepping stones toward realizing dreams and shaping a brighter future for oneself and the wider community.
“For you to achieve your goals, there must be dedication and sacrifice. Wake up from your comfort zones, and take risks in this life. No day you will wake up and get yourself scoring a grade A without going for it.
You have to wake up at dawn and manage your time well. Sacrifice and commitment will steer you to greater heights,” stated Mokua.
The resonating messages found fertile ground in the minds of the students, as a shared sense of purpose and determination filled the auditorium.
Eager faces leaned forward, absorbing every word and seizing each opportunity to engage in insightful discussions, seeking guidance and advice on the journey ahead.
“Discipline and goals are two very important aspects of life that cannot be separated. Discipline enables us to make progress toward our goals;
without it, we may have a vision and good dreams, but they become unachievable,” added Ms. Kerubo.
However, the event’s impact extended far beyond the auditorium’s walls.
Caring for the environment
Following the motivational sessions, a collective call to action reverberated through the air—the urgent need to restore and protect our natural environment.
The tree planting campaign, a symbol of unity and environmental stewardship, gathered momentum as students, guided by the student leaders and teachers, took up shovels and saplings to breathe life into the soil.
Together, they transformed barren patches of land into thriving havens of greenery, planting the seeds of a sustainable future.
Planting trees not only bolstered the commitment to environmental preservation but also served as a poignant reminder of the students’ role as caretakers of the Earth, responsible for nurturing and protecting its resources for generations to come.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the newly planted saplings, the event at the two schools concluded, leaving a lasting impression on all who participated.
The fusion of motivation and tree planting ignited a passion for education, resilience, and environmental stewardship within the students’ hearts.
The transformative power of education was palpable, invigorating young minds with the belief that they possess the potential to shape their destinies and contribute positively to society.
Simultaneously, the commitment to sustainable practices highlighted the students’ role as guardians of the environment, empowered to combat climate change and preserve the natural wonders within their surroundings.
Students call
The Nduru Girls student leadership, under the stewardship of Yvonne Maximillian, who is the school captain, requested the South Mugirango Member of Parliament, Sylvanus Osoro, to chip in and support the students in terms of fee payment.
This is because most of them are from needy families, which makes them unable to cater for fee payments and other basic needs.
Thus, they miss a lot through absence from class work leading to poor performance in the schools.
In addition to this, Ragira also hinted at the request to the area MP to include Nduru Girls in his education empowerment program.
The tree planting initiative aimed not only to beautify the school but also to mitigate the effects of deforestation, combat climate change, and promote biodiversity.
Each sapling symbolized hope, resilience, and the promise of a sustainable future.
Through this, the student union collaboration showcased the power of unity, inspiring students to embrace education, environmental stewardship, and active participation in their communities.
As the sun set over, the legacy of this memorable event will continue to grow—both in the flourishing trees and in the minds of the students who their leaders inspired, as they were now equipped to pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to society.
“We are the youths and this should be our perspective, becoming climate ambassadors,” said Matara.
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Through this powerful message that intertwines the growth of minds with the flourishing of nature, students will embark on a journey of self-discovery and environmental responsibility, heralding a future where empowered individuals embrace education and champion sustainability, ensuring the world remains vibrant for generations to come.
Bravo🔥💫
Good work brother, keep it burning 💥💥