Ojwang, an alumnus of the institution, was among five young individuals remembered during a candlelight vigil organised by the Pwani University Students Media (PUSM). The emotional event was held at the university's main gate between 6pm and 8pm, drawing dozens of students and alumni who lit candles in a moving tribute to lives cut short.
Alongside Ojwang, the memorial honoured four other students who recently passed away: Emily Boisabi, Billy Abhir, Daniel Muthami, and Lorraine Bahati.
In a touching statement shared via their official Facebook page, PUSM wrote:
"Eternal Echoes
Today, as the Pwani University community gathers for a special candle lighting, we pause to honour and remember our beloved comrades whom we have lost in this first phase of the year. Their presence is deeply missed, and their memories will forever remain in our hearts.
Pwani University Students Media offers a solemn tribute to these bright souls who were part of our family. May their legacies inspire us, and may we find solace in the bonds of our community during this difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends, and all who knew and loved them.
As candles flicker against the fading light, we bid you a sorrowful 'fare thee well,' knowing your legacy will forever illuminate our path."
The post garnered heartfelt reactions from fellow students and members of the public, who flooded the comment section with tributes and condolences.
Sadfa Caleb wrote in poetic Kiswahili:
"Huwa kwangu ni dhiki, uchungu kama fataki
Huwa kusema sitaki, kuwapoteza marafiki
Wengine kwa mikuki, na wengine kwa bunduki
Ningependa waishi, ila mwenye pumzi mwenyezi
Ila Ojwang inauma, kuishi kaburini huna budi
Umetuacha tutasimama, mpaka tujue kusudi
Lakini hatuwezi hama, kuishi humu itabidi
Watakufa wauwaji, na tutafurahi kuwazika."
Mutisya Faith kept it brief with, "RIP champions," while Nimimi Lynn lamented, "Very unfortunate."
The vigil came just a day after another candlelight ceremony was held by teachers in Homa Bay County, where Ojwang also served as a well-regarded educator.
The teachers not only paid their respects but also voiced strong condemnation of the circumstances that led to his death.
They criticised the police, the very institution meant to protect citizens, for their alleged role in the brutal death of one of their own.
The two ceremonies reflect a growing national sentiment of grief and anger, as many call for justice in the face of police brutality.
For Pwani University, Sunday’s gathering was not just a moment of mourning—but a powerful assertion of unity, remembrance, and the demand for accountability.
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