First-time celebration for Jitegemee University Graduate

“Today is the first day I am celebrating an event in my entire life. I have never celebrated any event in my life; not even a birthday,” John Kiluma told Jitegemee staff at his graduation from Cooperative University of Kenya on 1 December, 2017.

John joined Jitegemee in 2009 when he was in Class 8, and it was soon clear he was a hard-working, bright student. He progressed to Machakos Boys High School and after achieving excellent results in his K.C.S.E. (GED-equivalent) exams, he progressed to Cooperative University of Kenya to pursue a BCom. John passed his BCom with a 2nd Class Upper Division – an excellent final grade. John grew up in Machakos and is the second of four children. His parents have never had formal employment and are very proud of their son’s achievement. John plans to form either an audit or financial consultancy firm. We wish him well with his next adventure!

During our Annual Children’s Day on 14 December 2017, we also celebrated John’s graduation, as well as the progress made by all of our students during 2017.

John’s mother shakes hands with Jitegemee Executive Director, Verity Norman-Tichawangana and new Country Director Jennifer Katiwa at Jitegemee’s Children’s Day on 14 December 2017, after John received his certificate.

John Kiluma and his mother, along with the Jitegemee team.

John’s friends and family help him cut a celebratory graduation cake at Jitegemee Children’s Day.

John Kiluma and his friend, Meshack Nzioko, another Jitegemee university student.

One of our primary school students enjoying lunch during our 2017 Children’s Day.

Jitegemee Program Manager, Elizabeth Nzivo, gives instructions to our students at the end of our 2017 Children’s Day.

We are also very proud of our Secondary School graduates, who wrote their K.C.S.E. examination at the end of 2017. We had 100% pass rate and all 5 of our candidates – David Mutua, Joseph Kang’ethe, Mercy Mukulu, Mercy Nzaumi, and Ezekiel Kaleli – got high enough grades to qualify for Jitegemee support as they continue their studies at the college level.

Last but not least, all 9 Jitegemee-sponsored students who wrote their K.C.P.E. (primary school certificate) examination at the end of 2017 passed the exam. 3 of these students got more than 300 out of 500 possible grades, and qualify for Jitegemee support in secondary school. The others will continue with day school, which is now free in Kenya, or will join Jitegemee’s vocational training program.

We are so proud of our students who excel in the classroom, despite living with some of the most challenging circumstances and battling poverty. Keep your eyes on the stars, Jitegemee students!