Update on Graduating Eighth Grade Students

Last month, after months of hard work and preparation, including a Prayer Day and several practice exams, our second class of 8th graders took their National examinations. Their scores will help determine what type of high school they can attend. Can you imagine the pressure for these young people?

On Prayer Day, Loyce presented each eighth grade student with a backpack, symbolic of the love and care the Mwanzo Wetu staff provide these children, and in preparation for their going out into the world. They still have to carry their belongings back home and wherever they go when they start high school, but not in cardboard boxes or maize sacks. There were many tears of joy as these gifts were presented.

The graduating class is larger this year, with 24 students. Most of them come from family backgrounds with extremely limited resources. One lost both parents to a road accident when she was 9 years old. Some had never gotten 3 meals a day in their lives, or slept in a bed. Many have lost parents and siblings to HIV. The current economic situation makes things even harder. Mwanzo staff members have been deeply touched by their situations.

Teachers and other community members committed a great deal of time and energy to helping these students. After last year’s 8th graders boarded during their last term, it was clear what a big difference it made for their learning, as well as for their health and wellbeing. So the staff at MWCEA decided these 8th graders should board for the whole year. Students arrived looking weak and emaciated, and some had had difficulty taking needed medications. They have gone back home healthy and looking bright, with some trepidation about how they are going to make it in life away from Mwanzo. We will have an opportunity to help them go to high school early next year.

Eighth grade students receiving their new backpacks