A 40-year-old housemaid named Gladys Gaki has returned to school after years of caregiving to earn a diploma and was awarded a full scholarship to further her studies at the university.
Gladys had it tough growing up as she was abandoned by her mother at a river bank. She was abused sexually and lost her businesses and home, which made her sink into depression.
She was rescued by a clergyman and his wife, who ensured that she went back to school at the age of 40. Despite all her challenges of not having a home, food, and all the other basics, Gladys persevered in her quest for education.
Gladys earned a Diploma in Criminology from Tharaka University, Kenya, and successfully graduated with a certificate in Criminology and Security Studies from the same institution. ”Against all odds, see the doing of God. I am currently doing a Diploma and in the second semester,” Gladys said.
”It has not been easy; the days I slept outside unable to pay rent. No food, ooh God is faithful. I did menial jobs during my free time to put a meal on the table; laundry, shamba, and loading and off lorries,” she added.
She enrolled back into school 26 years after she dropped out due to circumstances beyond her control. While in the university, Gladys wrote a letter to the university’s Vice-Chancellor noting that she wanted to delay her studies due to financial challenges.
“People from all walks of life came through for me. At times, I could report to campus with zero fees, and somehow God came through for me. I completed early this year and was advised by my lecturers, the Dean of students, and the Registrar Academics to enroll for Diploma,” she said.