Wajir’s top KCSE girl appeals for help to realise doc dream

Her sterling performance is being celebrated across the county that continues to grapple with educational challenges.

Hafsa now stands among the county’s top academic performers, a distinction achieved not through privilege, but through faith, discipline and quiet determination.

Despite the celebrations, a major challenge stands to the former Furqan Integrated Secondary School student.

Hafsa aspires to pursue medicine, with the hope of returning to serve Wajir and the wider Northeastern region.

“I worked very hard and stayed focused on my studies because I believed education was my way to a better future. But now I am afraid that all my efforts and these good grades might be in vain if I do not get help to join university,” she said during the interview at her home.

The soft-spoken student  comes from a poor family that will be unable to raise university fees, accommodation charges and other expenses.

“I have done my part as a student. I am now appealing to our leaders, organisations and well-wishers to help me continue with my education. I want to study and one day give back to my community and inspire other girls from Wajir to believe that they can succeed,”she said.

“This was once just a silent dream. I prayed for it constantly, and by the mercy of Allah, it came true.”

Her mother, Fatuma Jelle, has made a heartfelt appeal to county leadership.

“My daughter has worked tirelessly.  I humbly ask the leaders of Wajir to support her university education,” she said during the interview.

She has specifically called on the office of the Wajir Woman Representative and other leaders to consider sponsoring Hafsa, emphasising that such support would be an investment in the county’s future rather than an act of charity.

Hafsa’s sister, Fardowsa Abukar, supports the appeal, noting that the achievement reflects the strength of combining secular and Islamic education.

“This success belongs to the entire community. We are hopeful that Hafsa will receive a full scholarship, and we urge our leaders to help her fulfil her ambitions.”

At Furqan Integrated Secondary School, she found a nurturing environment that went beyond academic instruction. The school management sponsored her entire high school education and made deliberate investments in final-year students by engaging experienced teachers, improving student welfare through better meals, and organising weekly Islamic lessons that strengthened both intellect and character.

“If I start describing the meals and the Thursday Islamic lectures,” she said with a modest smile, “I may never finish expressing my gratitude.”

Her accomplishments are also rooted in the sacrifices made at home. Hafsa acknowledged her parents’ unwavering support, describing their prayers and encouragement as a constant source of strength during difficult moments.

“Thank you for standing by me emotionally and physically. You made the impossible feel possible,” she said.

Her success has been widely celebrated across Wajir, where academic achievement is viewed as a shared triumph.

Hafsa is quick to credit her classmates, describing them as a dedicated and united group whose efforts deserve recognition.

“This result reflects our hard work,” she told them. “I pray that life beyond school rewards each of you generously.”

Mohamed Hussein, a retired teacher, called on the local leadership to step up and support the needy bright girl.

"Now, the opportunity lies with Wajir’s leadership and well-wishers. Supporting Hafsa Abubakar Sharif through a scholarship would not only secure one young woman’s future, but also affirm that excellence in Wajir is recognised, encouraged and rewarded," Mohamed said.

"Her journey reflects resilience in a region where learning often takes place amid hardship. Through consistency and strong belief, Hafsa built a routine anchored in hard work and prayer.This ought to be rewarded."