Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has rewarded 10 pupils who narrated a poem against alcoholism with school fees payment for the next three years until they complete their primary level education.
The DP said this at the official residence in Karen where Pastor Dorcas Rigathi was hosting the group of pupils for breakfast.
The pupils had requested to visit Pastor Dorcas on 31st May 2024 during a Thanksgiving Ceremony held in their school where the Deputy President was the chief guest.
“I am happy with the poem you have narrated. You requested to come and visit me, and I will also be praying for you to succeed. Remember education is the greatest equalizer, pursue it relentlessly and with focus,” said Pastor Dorcas.
The pupils were from Mutonyora Comprehensive Primary School in Kinangop, Nyandarua County, and were accompanied by their Head teacher Charles Mwangi, Teachers Peter Muhwanga and Joakim Kamau.
“Alcohol and Drug Addiction is a disease. I pray that you will never touch and consume alcohol, and will continue to be ambassadors against alcoholism and drug abuse. Your school of 2,000 pupils can influence thousands more and save our population from this destructive behaviour,” said Pastor Dorcas.
Teacher Muhwanga said he was motivated to compose the poem against alcoholism titled Njohi Njohi (alcohol enslaves) following the pain of death 0f his only brother to alcoholism, and he hoped the poem would inspire generations.
“I am excited that the poem has gone beyond our school of 2,000 pupils, and even opened doors for these pupils to visit the residence of the Deputy President. The message against alcoholism has also been heard by many,” said Teacher Muhwanga.
Pastor Dorcas encouraged the pupils to confidently express their talents and abilities to the world, noting that gifts and talents can open doors to greatness.
She also urged the pupils to stay away from alcohol and drugs, as the poem stipulated, use their time wisely, study diligently, and avoid negative peer pressure to become successful in life.
She expressed her satisfaction in seeing the campaign against alcohol and drugs seeping to the grassroots, and among the young generation.
The poem narrated how mortuary drugs are used in the brewing of illicit alcohol, the deaths caused by the brews, and how men use their last coin to buy alcohol at the expense of their family values.
The school’s Headteacher said that the adoption of CBC in schools had led to visibility of talents and gifts among the pupils.
“The DP paying school fees for these pupils’ means that they shall continue with their studies uninterrupted which is quite encouraging, and also inspires them to value their gifts and talents,” said the Headteacher.
