KCA University has launched a charity drive meant to raise Sh15 million through cycling to fund the education of its needy learners.
The University Vice Chancellor and CEO Prof. Isaiah Wakindiki said the drive, the second edition, seeks to support 64 bright, deserving and talented learners owing to the many difficulties that several learners are facing to complete their education.
He said statistics from the Commission for University Education (CUE) indicate that 60 percent of university students drop out of school due to lack of tuition fees, a concern to stakeholders that needs to be addressed.
Speaking while flagging off the tour that will see participants among them professional cyclists peddle today, Wakindiki said other than supporting talented and young innovators, the funds will also go towards supporting research and innovation.
“That’s why we need universities to have an education kitty to fund deserving students from needy backgrounds. This is our second edition and we hope to help some 64 learners through their education. Last year, we helped 16,” Prof. Wakindiki said.
The 1002-kilometer tour will start from KCA in Ruaraka, Nairobi to Kakamega County through Nakuru, Kericho, Kakamega and back through Kisumu, Kisii, Bomet will begin from May 29 to June 1, this year.
“Cycling also helps in maintaining physical and mental fitness and to conserve the environment,” he said.
Dr. Sarah Kilemi, the chairperson, KCA foundation said the tough economic times has pushed several learners out of school, a challenge that needs to be addressed.
She also called on the youth to inculcate the culture of cycling for their physical fitness and to touch the livelihoods of needy learners.
The cyclists, some of whom have participated in several local and international competitions led by Alice Miringu and Kelvin Kariuki, welcomed the initiative, saying their goal is to enable learners to achieve their education dreams.
Alice, a professional cyclist who has represented the country in various competitions in Burundi, Morocco, UK called on more youth to take up such drives to help others.
“I have done it before and I will do it again to support the education of those in need,” said Miring’u.
On his part, Kariuki called on the government to enhance the safety of cyclists on the road by protecting them from rough and reckless drivers who often edge them out of the road.
By Muoki Charles
