- Students injured in the Utumishi Academy tragedy continue their recovery, facing surgeries and medical expenses, while families receive vital support through their journey
- At the moment, two students from Utumishi Academy were taken into surgery after being re-admitted to hospital for their injuries
- Families of the fire survivors voiced concerns over rising medical expenses and the government has since addressed the matter
Nairobi, Kenya: Two girls who survived the horrific fire tragedy at Utumishi Girls Academy have been readmitted for surgery at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
Source: Facebook
A total of 16 students lost their lives when fire broke out at the Gilgil-based school, and 27 were left nursing injuries and have been receiving treatment at the hospital.
On June 18, a medical review was conducted where healthcare professionals assessed the progress of the affected students, and while many of the injured learners are showing encouraging signs of recovery, two Grade 10 students — Barbra Cheptoo and Violet Melissa Mukeira — require further medical intervention and have been readmitted for surgery.
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Mike Sonko steps in again as injured Utumishi Academy survivors return to KNH for specialised care
“After the reviews, I spent time with the students and their parents, sharing a meal, listening to their pain, fears, and hopes. We also shopped for the students and provided both the children and their parents with upkeep money to help ease their burden during this difficult period,” said former Nairobi governor Mike Sonko.
“The high medical bills remain a major concern. I raised the matter with Dr. Patrick Amoth Director General health, who assured us that the government will address it as promised. I also engaged Education CS Julius Ogamba regarding injured Form Four candidates, and we received positive assurance that online classes will begin next week,”he added.
Attention has also turned to the academic welfare of the learners, particularly candidates preparing for national examinations.
Source: Facebook
How will affected Utumishi Girls learners study?
Consultations with Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba focused on ensuring that injured Form Four students do not fall behind in their studies during recovery; there will be online learning programmes from next week, enabling affected candidates to continue their education while away from school.
After the medical visits, learners from nearby areas, including Ngong, Kikuyu, Kajiado, Mulolongo and Redhill, were safely transported back to their residences. Those who had travelled from more distant locations such as Narok, Nakuru and other parts of the country remained under care overnight due to exhaustion from the long journey.
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Vihiga: Heartbreak as Vokoli Girls student collapses at school and dies
Plans are in place to facilitate their safe travel home the following morning.
Despite enduring immense pain and trauma, the students have demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout their recovery process. Families, caregivers and supporters continue to rally around them, offering emotional, financial and practical assistance as they rebuild their lives.
The situation also served as a reminder of the long road to recovery that many survivors face after traumatic incidents. As treatment continued and academic support measures were rolled out, hopes remained high that the affected learners would regain their health, pursue their education and ultimately achieve their dreams.
Ruiru family eulogises last Utumishi girl buried
In another story, family and friends of the late Neema Wairimu Murigi, a beloved Form Four student at Utumishi Girls’ Academy, were heartbroken by her death, and tears flowed freely at her burial service.
Wairimu, 17, tragically died in the Utumishi Girls’ Academy fire, and her family narrated some of the best memories that they had with her and the kind of girl and student that she was before her untimely death.
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Security guard recounts early morning arson at Kakamega school: “Niliskia nduru”
Her family recalled Neema as a devoted believer and academic performer; her family now has to endure heartache while searching for their daughter after the dormitory blaze.
Source: NGBREAKINGNEWS
