We the students of the Bachelor of Arts pioneer class, embarked on a trip to the Eastlands College of Technology, recently, as part of our Development Studies class. The trip was arranged by our unit’s lecturer Mr Cecil Agutu.

 

The Eastlands College of Technology, established under the Strathmore Educational Trust, is an institution that was built to enable young people in the surrounding region, to gain technical knowledge that would enable them to work in the industry surrounding the college enabling them to earn a proper living. The students find the college beneficial as it gives them a chance to utilize their time while gaining important skills.

We also visited a school, Hi Cue Primary School Kids Mukuru Sinai, in the same area where we interacted with some students and their family members. We shared in entertainment through songs and storytelling sessions. Their joy and vitality was undoubtedly infectious.

 

We also distributed some of the food we had brought, an experience that was quite an eye-opener. We got to appreciate the lives we enjoy daily in the comfort of our homes, noting that some of these families live in conditions that are wanting.  

 

Generally, the visit was immensely impactful, seeing the investment made by Strathmore Educational Trust, caused us to appreciate our university and what it does. The willingness for students to participate in the visit, and witness the tough life lived in the slum, aroused in us a conviction that called for deliberate changes in how we perceive life.

 

The jovial nature of the children, despite their circumstances, caused us to question what we call issues and most importantly, why we really complain. Lastly, the selfless nature of those working in the college as instructors and guides really changed our perceptions; seeing how hard they worked towards the betterment and empowerment of these young people.

 

Towards the end of the visit, some students expressed interest in serving the society once more. A team was therefore formed to oversee this and strategize how best to work towards the development of the society and the empowerment of the young people. Being in the early stages and as part of the team, we are still evaluating the situation and working with Mr Agutu to see how best this can be done.

 

Eastlands College of Technology has been created to impact the society. It is truly a worthwhile investment which I believe will churn out great individuals, who are ready to serve the world with their skills.

 

 

Article by Husna Kipsoi a first year Bachelor of Arts – International Studies student.