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Ruth Auma started producing bricks to cover her educational expenses, a method she has relied on since her time at primary school.
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A young person aspires to take her last high school exams yet encounters a significant challenge along the way.
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A teenage girl from Butula constituency, located in Busia county, shared details about the difficulties she faced at home that led her to take up manual labor.
Ruth Auma, hailing from Butula constituency in Busia County, aspirations to take part in the 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exam, has spoken about the challenges she encounters as she prepares for her last examinations.
Owing to economic difficulties, she has had to take up physical work.
A 17-year-old female produces bricks as an effort to gather funds for her tuition expenses, ensuring her academic aspirations remain intact.
Where did Auma acquire the knowledge of brick-making?
I began this job during my seventh grade year. Since then, I’ve been crafting bricks and using the earnings to pay for my schooling. This pattern continues up until now, as I’m currently in fourth form, preparing to take my KCSE national exams. I’ve had to work due to difficulties at home. Life is difficult and demanding, particularly financially, as our family is going through hard times,” she mentioned.
Auma revealed that her parents work as farmers, and the income generated from their agricultural activities supports the family by supplying food and covering other household requirements.
The challenges at home compelled Auma to approach her uncle, not for financial support, but to gain knowledge about making money.
“He is the person responsible for producing bricks. While he was crafting them, I observed him carefully and studied his process. I watched him intently, picking up techniques as he worked. One day, I expressed my desire to attempt brick-making myself. I confidently requested an opportunity, and that’s how I eventually mastered it independently,” Auma explained.
The uncle of Ruth Auma, her mother speaks
The aunt of Auma shared a touching fact regarding her niece, which deepened their connection and improved their professional dynamic.
He observed that a health issue had strengthened their bond because of the economic difficulties they faced at home.
“She had gone through surgery, and her medical condition was what led us to grow nearer. While she was healing, financial difficulties arose at home since my sister was unable to work,” he noted.
Agnes Oduma, Auma’s mother, confirmed her daughter’s dedication during Form Four, which, although commendable, caused her sorrow upon understanding the reason behind the teen’s intense effort.
At what hours does Auma rise?
She observed that Auma rises early each day to sell bricks prior to getting ready for school.
“She gets up at 5 am and arranges the bricks beside the road. I feel sorry for my daughter having to wake up so early,” Oduma said.
Auma repeated her mother’s feelings, mentioning that occasionally she feels frightened, yet she confronts her anxieties because of what is involved.
She requested supporters to assist her in covering her tuition costs in order to avoid affecting her prospects of completing high school.
A Machakos secondary school student needs monetary assistance
In a different account, a student from Grade Two sought help with funding to cover her tuition costs, fearing she might be asked to leave school.
Mercy Mutheu faced the possibility of being removed from school if she did not settle her outstanding tuition payments.
A young girl from Machakos County shared details about her mother’s challenges; her mother earns a living as a street vendor to support their household.
