Top KCSE student Evans Odhiambo works construction to fund medical studies at University of Nairobi
via Tuko3 min read
Evans Odhiambo, a second-year Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery student at the University of Nairobi and a top 2023 KCSE performer, has resorted to manual labor at a construction site due to financial difficulties. Despite scoring an A plain of 84 points in his KCSE and consistently achieving high grades, Odhiambo faces challenges in funding his medical education. His father, Francis Onyango, a motorbike rider, and his mother, who takes on sewing jobs, struggle to afford the university fees, especially with the new funding model. Odhiambo was placed in band five, requiring a household fee of KSh 245,000 per year, which is beyond his family's earnings. His father has appealed to leaders, including the Migori senator and Suna West Member of Parliament, for assistance in securing a more affordable band placement or tuition fee support, but without success. Odhiambo currently works for KSh 450 daily at the Wouth Ogik construction site, approximately 372 kilometers from his university, to cover his expenses, while his classmates continue their studies.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
Must ReadDefence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has called on Kenyans to pray for the nation, stating that her role exposes her to realities not witnessed by most citizens. Speaking at a church service in Narok, Tuya emphasized that Kenya's peace and stability should not be taken for granted, drawing comparisons to politically and economically unstable neighboring countries. She highlighted Kenya's relative peace despite ongoing security challenges, urging the clergy and public to remain steadfast in prayer. Tuya noted that her position provides access to information and situations that ordinary Kenyans do not see, reinforcing her appeal for continued prayers for the country.
Must ReadPolice in Kisumu county arrested two individuals after discovering a large consignment of government relief food at a homestead in Muhoroni sub-county. Officers from Masogo Police Station, acting on intelligence, raided the home of the late Johana Nyasuna, father of Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, on Sunday, July 12, 2026. They found 300 bags of rice, 250 bags of beans, and 20 bags of uji mix, all weighing 50 kilograms each, offloaded and concealed inside a house. The food was intended for distribution to residents in the Chemelil area via the deputy county commissioner's office in Muhoroni sub-county. A Mercedes-Benz trailer, registration number KCG 240F, registered to Pontypridd Holdings, was also found at the scene. The truck driver, Charles Gichoki, and a storekeeper were arrested and are assisting DCI Muhoroni with investigations. The incident, recorded under OB Number 06/12/07/2026, has sparked public outrage over the diversion of relief food.
Must ReadAn Infotrak survey released on Monday, July 13, indicates President William Ruto leads the 2027 presidential race with 32% support. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka is second with 13%, followed by former Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna and former Interior Cabinet secretary Fred Matiang'i, both at 12%. Other contenders include former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua at 4%, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino at 3%, and former chief justice David Maraga at 2%. Ruto's support is strongest in the North Rift 89%, Mt. Kenya North 54%, and South Rift 46%. Kalonzo Musyoka has significant backing in Lower Eastern 66%. Gachagua leads in Mt Kenya East 68% and Mt Kenya West 62%, while Matiang'i's strongest showing is in South Nyanza 41%. The survey, conducted between June 22 and 26, 2026, interviewed 3,000 adults, with 18% of respondents remaining undecided. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.79 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.