Dignity restored: Vulnerable pupils receive school uniforms

At least 2,650 vulnerable learners in Webuye West Constituency have received school uniforms from the Joseph Waswa Foundation.

The foundation also issued bursaries worth Sh1.1 million to 210 college students in Sitikho and Matulo wards on Monday.

Foundation chairman Lendrix Waswa urged well-wishers to support the education of vulnerable children in society, emphasising that no child should stay out of school due to a lack of basic requirements.

“Education is the only equaliser in our society. When a child lacks a uniform, their dignity is stripped away, and their confidence in the classroom wanes,” he said.

“This foundation is stepping in to bridge the gap for families struggling to choose between a meal and a school shirt. We are setting a base for a more inclusive Webuye West where every child has a fair starting point.” 

Waswa said the bursary component is designed to ensure the transition from secondary to tertiary levels is not disrupted by financial constraints.

“To our university and college students, this Sh1.1 million is an investment in our future workforce. We expect nothing but excellence from you,” he added.

Waswa said the programme is a blueprint for his vision for the constituency. Beneficiaries of the donation expressed gratitude for the support.

Mercy Nafula, a mother of three from Sitikho, said she was worried about how her children would attend school this term because their old uniform was torn beyond repair.

“This intervention is a godsend. Now, I can use the little money I have to buy them food,” she said.

Another beneficiary, Sarah Wekesa, a Grade 7 pupil, said the new uniform had given her a reason to look forward to school.

“I used to feel shy because my dress had faded and was patched. Today, I feel like a new person. I am going to work harder in my studies to make my family proud,” she said.

Kevin Simiyu, a student at a local Technical and Vocational Education and Training institution, noted the bursary would allow him to sit his upcoming exams.

“I was on the verge of being sent home for fees. This cheque has settled my mind. Waswa has shown us that he cares about our professional growth,” Simiyu said.

James Baraza, a Grade 8 pupil, said the new uniform makes him feel equal to his peers.

“In school, looking smart matters. Now I can focus on my books without worrying about how I look,” he said.