|By Jemmy Kamau|
A raffle. Scrumptious bitings. Enticing prizes up for grabs – 32” TV, phones, duvets, kitchen set knives, towels, head phones, tool kits, leather bags… How could one possibly miss that! Raffle tickets, and a hopeful, joyous spirit were the only requirements to access the venue.
The staff indeed understood the assignment. Kilimanjaro Cafeteria was full to the brim – within minutes it was filled by staff catching up and discussing who had the lucky ticket to win the prizes! And there was music to accompany the mood – “Tumeuona mkono wako Bwana, matendo yako, Bwana ni makuu mno. Umetutoa mbali…”
The VC’s cocktail held on Friday, October 15, was a culmination of the annual Staff Giving week. While speaking to staff members, Dr. Vincent Omwenga, Chair of the Staff Giving Committee, expressed profound gratitude and appreciation for the continued support to students by staff members. In 2021, in spite of the harsh financial environment occasioned by the pandemic, staff members have raised KES 1,995,739.
“Your commitment to this noble cause is a testimony of a desire to extend a helping hand to those in need. Together, we can extend our hands beyond our individual limits. We celebrate each and every one of you and look forward to your continued support.”
In 2014, the Strathmore Advancement office together with some members of staff started the Staff Giving Campaign with the aim of involving staff members interested in supporting students in need. So far, the fund has raised KES 20,288,266 and has supported 224 students through accommodation, bursary, meal allowance and stipends.
Sustainability and Continuity
Some of the beneficiaries of the Staff Giving gave speeches of deep appreciation. “Without the staff giving fund, I would not have become the 12th Student Council President, let alone pursue my ambitions and academics. Thanks to the Staff giving fund, I am who I am today!” Don Kamoya.
To further grow the fund and ensure sustainability in the coming years, the committee has now begun a new proposal – the Soo Moja Endowment Fund – that will rope in Strathmore Alumni in contributing towards the fund.
How will it work?
The fund will consist of small monthly donations of KES 100 which will contribute towards small gifts in form of tuition, accommodation and living expenses. This initiative is open to current students and to alumni, whose solidarity will create a culture of brotherhood or sisterhood in our students beyond school life.
So are you a Stratizen, part of the Strathmore University Alumni? You can #BeAStar and assist a Stratizen to #keeplearning by contributing #SooMojaKilaMwezi here:
Paybill No: 7552019
Acc: SooMoja
Jemmy Kamau is a fourth year Bachelor of Arts in International Studies student.
