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Garissa Student Struggles with Financial Hurdles in Pursuit of Nursing Dream

Financial Constraints Hinder Garissa Female Student's Pursuit of Nursing Career

Sumeya Hassan, a determined student hailing from a humble background in Garissa, has encountered numerous obstacles in her pursuit of becoming a nurse.

After completing her secondary studies in March 2022 with a C- grade, Sumeya was dissatisfied and resolved to give it another try.

Her perseverance bore fruit in December 2022 when she achieved a notable improvement, securing a B- grade at Ikhlas Integrated High School in Garissa Township.

However, despite her academic success, Sumeya finds herself trapped at home, unable to enroll in nursing school due to financial constraints. The stringent requirements for admission into nursing programs demand a minimum grade of C+ in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), along with specific grades in English or Kiswahili, Mathematics or Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

Reflecting on her situation, Sumeya expressed her frustration at the looming possibility of her dreams slipping away.

“I have already wasted a whole year staying at home, and somehow I have started to feel like my dreams have started to shatter right in front of me,” she lamented.

Although Sumeya received an admission offer last year to NEP College of Health Sciences, financial limitations prevented her from accepting it.

A screen grab of KCSE results for Sumeya Hassan who secured a B- grade at Ikhlas Integrated High School in Garissa Township.
A screen grab of KCSE results for Sumeya Hassan who secured a B- grade at Ikhlas Integrated High School in Garissa Township. Photo/ Courtesy 

Now, she appeals for support from generous contributors to help her pursue her studies and uplift her family’s circumstances.

“I would genuinely appreciate any contribution towards my education,” Sumeya appealed.

“Your support would not only enable me to fulfill my dreams but also assist my family in their current situation.”

Sumeya’s story sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many aspiring students from disadvantaged backgrounds in the North Eastern region.

Despite their resilience and dedication, financial barriers often hinder the realization of their dreams. Now, Sumeya eagerly awaits an opportunity to pursue her passion for nursing.

A letter of admission to NEP College of Health Sciences was extended to Sumeya Hassan last year. Unfortunately, due to a lack of funds, she missed the opportunity to commence her nursing classes. Photo/Screen Grab

Mrs. Hanifa Adan, echoing sentiments of community support has encouraged individuals, local leaders, and philanthropists to contribute to Sumeya’s cause.

She believes that their support could significantly impact Sumeya’s life and the lives of those she aspires to help in the future.

“May Sumeya’s journey serve as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of community support in overcoming educational barriers and achieving one’s dreams,” Mrs. Hanifa Adan concluded.