83-year-old embarks on 530km journey to raise funds for poor students

An elderly man has embarked on a 530km journey that will see him traverse several counties to raise funds for financially vulnerable students.

Issack Gacugo, 83, is hoping to traverse Tharaka Nithi, Meru and Laikipia counties, in an initiative to establish an endowment fund for poor and bright students.

The charity walk was flagged off by Tharaka University VC Prof Peter Muriungi.

Mr Gacugo was upbeat when he started off at the main campus in Tharaka and, as he completed over 40km to reach Meru County, he paid a courtesy call in the Governor's office and the Meru County Assembly next door.

"I came to Tharaka University and learned that they had some challenges with the poor students. I like running and walking, and the idea is to raise funds for the poor students. I appeal to everybody to contribute so that we can hit the target," Mr Gacugo said.

He was flanked by his trainer, Moses Wamuru, and he exuded confidence that he would finish the long journey.

Speaking to the students, faculty and other guests, Gacugo said his vision was to see all the students successfully go through their courses and go on to empower their communities in different fields.

"I am also urging the students to put in the effort and play their part in studies, and for them to obey their lecturers, so that you are blessed."

Prof Muriungi said the varsity is planning to raise a Sh500 million endowment fund to aid the vulnerable students.

"There are students who cannot access education, but they should not be left to waste. As a university, we have decided that we want to establish an endowment fund that will assist us to support vulnerable and bright students from all parts of this country," he said.

The walk is part of the build-up to a major fundraising dinner slated for December this year.

"The target is to raise Sh500m to be able to establish a revolving fund, where we will be using interest and not touching the base amount, so that the fund does not die for generations," said the don.

Prof Muriungi said the institution was already assisting some of the students from financially vulnerable backgrounds.

Mwau Brian of Centum Investments and Charles Wachira, the Chairman of Kiambu Golf Club, were among dignitaries who attended to support the cause.

"We will be walking with Issack for parts of the journey," Muriungi said.

Said Mr Wachira: "I am encouraged by the project and in full support."