College students on a mission to empower young PWDs in Nakuru

Dennis Cheruiyot's journey into higher education reflects significant progress toward creating an inclusive education system for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Through outreach programs that he participates in to bridge the gap in educational access for PWDs, over 20 individuals have been enrolled in various colleges.

These initiatives are part of efforts to make higher education more inclusive and accessible.

Cheruiyot recalls a particularly impactful moment when a team from Rift Valley National Polytechnic conducted an outreach program.

He says the team encountered a young man with a physical disability who had excelled academically but had been unable to join college.

“We found him at home, doing nothing, despite his excellent performance. When we introduced ourselves, he was thrilled, especially because we, too, had disabilities,” Cheruiyot shares.

The young man had hesitated to join college, fearing the discrimination he had experienced in primary and secondary school.

However, meeting the team and seeing their success in higher education inspired him to pursue his dreams after two years of self-doubt.

“We guided him on how to navigate campus life and emphasized the importance of uniting to address common challenges,” Cheruiyot explains.

Last year, the young man enrolled at Ol’lessos National Polytechnic to study corporate management.

Cheruiyot expresses pride in his team’s efforts to advocate for PWDs while fostering a supportive community.

“It’s incredible to see how students with disabilities can come together to push for change and create a sense of belonging,” he concludes.

“When we come together, we can share our challenges and find solutions collectively, ensuring no one feels isolated,” he explains. 

Cheruiyot notes that the community has successfully advocated for its members, bringing their concerns to the administration. 

"We have a greater impact as a group than as individuals. Together, we can share our views with the administration and push for a more inclusive environment," he adds. 

The community has also supported its members in student leadership, moving from nominations to elections.

Cheruiyot notes that three elected leaders with disabilities are now representatives in the student body, demonstrating that other students recognize their capabilities. 

Additionally, the community has encouraged active participation in extracurricular activities, enabling students with disabilities to compete in various sports including athletics, sitting volleyball and board games.

The group also ensures priority access to on-campus accommodations for new students with disabilities. 

Cheruiyot says there are ongoing efforts to help students obtain PWD certificates, essential for accessing support programs like bursaries.