KISUMU, 27th January –Underprivileged students from several wards in Kisumu Central Sub-County have received a major boost in their education after a local leader stepped in to support them with school fees.
A total of 16 needy students drawn from Migosi, Market Milimani, Nyalenda B, Kaloleni Shaurimoyo and Railway wards benefited from a Sh 48,000 bursary sponsored by lawyer Fred Odumo, a senatorial aspirant in Kisumu County for the 2027 general election.
The bursary cheques were issued on Tuesday at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Ground in Kisumu, in an exercise that brought together students, parents and community members.
The support targeted learners from vulnerable backgrounds who were at risk of dropping out of school due to a lack of fees.
Speaking on behalf of Odumo during the event, Terry Obieche said the initiative was driven by a strong belief that education is the foundation of social and economic development.
“Mr Odumo strongly believes that education is the great equaliser. His heart is in education, and he feels a personal responsibility to ensure that children from needy families are not denied opportunities simply because of poverty,” said Obieche.
She noted that the beneficiaries were carefully identified through a fair and transparent process that involved consultations at the community level.
“We did not just pick names randomly. The process looked at genuine needs, family background and the risk faced by each student. The goal was to reach those who truly needed support,” she explained.
Obieche added that supporting education was a source of pride for Odumo, describing him as a leader who remains grounded and responsive to the needs of ordinary citizens.
“He is a man of the people, down to earth, and always ready to listen. This bursary is not about politics, but about giving hope to children and families,” she said.
Parents who accompanied their children to receive the cheques expressed gratitude, saying the assistance had lifted a heavy burden from their shoulders.
One parent, Enock Nganyi, said many families in the area struggle to keep their children in school due to harsh economic conditions.
“Most political leaders only show up during campaigns and disappear immediately after elections,” said Nganyi as he added that, “What Odumo is doing is very rare. He is not even elected yet, but he is already on the ground helping people.”
He further said that the bursary would help his child continue with studies without interruption, noting that education was the only hope for a better future.
Women and widows who attended the event also praised the initiative, saying it demonstrated compassion and sincerity.
“As mothers, especially widows, school fees are a constant worry. This support has come at the right time,” said one beneficiary’s guardian as she thanked God for using Odumo to remember their children.
Some of the students, said the bursary had renewed their determination to work hard in school and make good use of the opportunity they had been given.
Community members present described the initiative as a positive example of leadership that focuses on long-term development rather than short-term political gains.
They noted that investing in education not only helps individual students but also strengthens the future of the wider community.
