What seemed like a typical Saturday to me was a life-changing experience for the Form Four students from Juvenalis Gitau Secondary School. Stepping onto Strathmore University’s campus was a moment that sparked excitement and dreams of a future they had only imagined. From the moment they arrived, their excitement was infectious. Before the campus tour began, you could hear their awe, “This place is beautiful!”
The day began with breakfast at Kilimanjaro, where the students were captivated by the stunning view of Madaraka Estate, forgetting for a moment that we had a schedule to follow. As they enjoyed a tasty breakfast, members of the Community Outreach Programme joined their tables and started chatting. The questions kept coming. From asking if this is how we eat daily to how they could join Strathmore after KCSE? You could tell they were already thinking about their future. Some were already asking what would be for lunch, eager to experience more of what the day had to offer.
Next, we headed to the Zumaridi Room for a session of self-reflection. Through thought-provoking questions and touching video stories, the students were given a window into the lives transformed by Strathmore University. They even got a chance to ask one of the students from the video questions in person. The students did not disappoint as they eagerly asked how they could overcome their challenges and achieve the same success.
Then came lunch, back at Kilimanjaro. Of course, the students once again gazed out over the view of Madaraka. As they enjoyed their meal, the energy remained high. Conversations deepened, and you could feel the quiet hope building, with many likely thinking, “I want to be here one day.”
The campus tour followed, with students wide-eyed and full of questions, every corner sparking wonder and possibility. As the day came to an end, a bittersweet mood took over. One teacher jokingly asked, “Should we leave you here?” A chorus of “YES!” erupted, full of joy and laughter.
As we said our goodbyes, one thing was clear. This day mattered. Many students shared how inspired they felt and how it had sparked a desire to work harder and dream bigger. It was more than just another Saturday, as it might have been the beginning of something life-changing.
Article written by Mercy Anyango, Community Outreach Programme Volunteer.
