Nairobi: Muslim leaders in Homa Bay County have appealed to members of the Muslim community to support needy students who have qualified to join universities and colleges, emphasizing that financial hardship should not deny learners access to higher education.
According to Kenya News Agency, the appeal was made during an education support initiative forum in Homa Bay town. SUPKEM County Secretary, Nuhu Abdul Masoud, congratulated students who had secured placements in universities and colleges across the country. Masoud pointed out that while gaining admission into higher learning institutions is a significant achievement, many students are unable to enroll due to the high cost of tuition, accommodation, and other essential learning materials.
He emphasized the establishment of the initiative to mobilize resources from members of the Muslim community and other well-wishers to ensure that students can pursue their academic dreams. “We have taken it as our responsibility to look for ways of helping these students. Many have qualified to join universities, but some lack school fees, suitcases, and other basic requirements. We are appealing to anyone willing to support them through financial contributions or donations of learning materials,” said Masoud.
Masoud announced plans for a special fundraising event on July 31, 2026, at Governors Park in Homa Bay Town, aimed at bringing together well-wishers and members of the Muslim community to raise support for students. He explained that the program would offer different forms of assistance depending on the needs of individual students, stressing that every contribution would make a difference in helping young people access higher education.
He urged students preparing to join universities and colleges to remain focused on their studies and avoid activities that could jeopardize their education. “Education is the key to a better future. Students should work hard, remain disciplined, and concentrate on achieving their academic goals,” he said. Masoud also cautioned young people against engaging in political violence or allowing themselves to be manipulated by politicians for unlawful activities.
Zenu Lawidin, a teacher in Homa Bay Mosque, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that would give hope to students. Lawidin encouraged students to value education and remain committed to their studies, advising them to avoid being manipulated by politicians, as such actions could destroy their education and future careers.
Another elder, Ismael Loo, encouraged students to take education seriously, highlighting that it opens opportunities for personal growth and economic empowerment. He urged all learners joining institutions of higher learning to work hard and embrace education as a tool for transforming their lives. “Education opens people’s eyes and prepares them for a better tomorrow. Every student should take the opportunity seriously because it will shape their future,” he said.
The leaders expressed optimism that with collective support from the Muslim community, more students would successfully join universities and colleges and eventually contribute to the country’s social and economic development.
