Varsity students from Homa Bay form group to air their interests
Students from Homa Bay, attending various universities across the country, have established an association to collectively address the challenges they encounter during their academic journeys. Among these challenges are difficulties in securing attachment and internship opportunities. These students are seeking assistance from the Homa Bay government and elected leaders, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds, in the form of bursaries to alleviate financial pressures during their studies.
Operating under the banner of the Homa Bay Universities Students Association (HUSA), these students intend to advocate for their rights and interests. They are determined not to be exploited by politicians during elections and then ignored afterward.
HUSA’ s Chairman, Alfred Amollo, along with his deputy Flanky Buong and election overseer Mildred Awuor, emphasized the importance of fair bursary allocation. They believe that the current disparities in the amounts distributed by some Members of Parliament are inequitable, with some providing as little as Sh2,000 while others offer Sh10,000. Given the high annual cost of university fees, reaching up to Sh150,000, these discrepancies are perceived as inadequate.
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Buong has proposed the establishment of a fund to assist all financially struggling students. Additionally, HUSA aims to address issues related to teenage pregnancies, sexual gender-based violence (SGBV), and high HIV prevalence in Homa Bay. They plan to undertake campaigns to empower youths and combat these social challenges.
Homa Bay government spokesperson Rachael Ogutu noted that the government is already addressing some of the students’ concerns by providing attachment and internship opportunities through various departments. The government has also introduced a bursary program to support students from vulnerable families.
Former Kibiri MCA Kennedy Ondiek commended the students for forming the association, recognizing its potential to amplify their collective voice and advocate for change.
Varsity students from Homa Bay form group to air their interests
