It began with a question and became a movement.

Why not Kapiyo? Why not bring hope, dignity, and opportunity to a forgotten school in Siaya County? From that single spark, a wave of compassion surged forward, fueled by the fierce resolve of Strathmore University alumni determined to make a difference where it mattered most.

What followed was a declaration that no community is too remote, no student too invisible, and no dream too big. Through the Thao Na Kapiyo initiative, the Strathmore Alumni Association’s Kisumu Chapter rallied alumni, students, and staff to rewrite the story of Kapiyo Secondary School.

What started as a simple outreach visit has ignited a lasting transformation, powered by mentorship, generosity, and a shared belief in the power of education to change lives.

The Thao Na Kapiyo fundraising effort raised an impressive Kshs. 320,000. These funds have already made a tangible impact. The school now has new whiteboards in classrooms, fresh learning materials, and sanitary towels to support the well-being and dignity of female students.

But the most life-changing outcome was yet to come. During a moving ceremony on the school’s prize-giving day, four Kapiyo students were awarded full scholarships to pursue university degrees at Strathmore. For many of them, it was a dream they never believed possible.

“I couldn’t believe it,” one student shared. “University seemed out of reach until this moment. Now, everything has changed.”

Another scholarship recipient echoed the sentiment: “Without the scholarship, I would never have joined Strathmore. This gift has given me hope, a future, and a reason to believe.”

The emotions were deeply felt by teachers and parents alike. “This is the first time our students have received such an opportunity,” said the School Principal, Mr. Barack Nyanja, overwhelmed with gratitude. “We are proud, we are hopeful, and we are inspired to keep pushing them to succeed.”

The students, in turn, made a solemn promise: “You believed in us. Now it’s our turn to make you proud.”

While much has been achieved, the work is not yet done. There is still a funding gap to fully complete the drive started at Kapiyo Secondary School. More classrooms need repairs, more learning materials are needed, and more students await the hope that education brings.

The Strathmore University Alumni Office extends its deepest thanks to everyone who made Thao Na Kapiyo possible. And with that gratitude comes a call to action. Let us finish what we started. Let us keep giving. Let us continue transforming lives.  The paybill to give is Business No. 7552019, and the Account No. is Kapiyo. 

Article written by Anthony Muema