In a bid to motivate and inspire the next generation, alumni of Murang’a High School, under their association MOBA, have organised a mentorship session for current students.
Among the keynote speakers gracing the event was Prof. Simon Gicharu, the Founder of Mount Kenya University (MKU) and Mount Kigali University (MKU-Rwanda), alongside other distinguished guests.
Prof. Gicharu pursued his Advanced Level Education at Murang’a High School before leaving in 1984, a feat that gave him the opportunity to further his education at Kenyatta University.
Nonetheless, it was not an easy journey. He joined the school in 1983 for a 2 years advanced level. In the first two years, Prof. Gicharu pursued Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. But upon receiving his results in early 1985, the marks were not enough, forcing him to repeat form six and replace Physics with Geography to study Mathematics, Chemistry and Geography.
He served as the Dining Hall Captain and YCS General Secretary in charge of bread canteen.
In his keynote address, Prof. Gicharu urged the students to pursue their dreams, ambitions and efforts bravely, as the future of the country and of the world lie in their hands.
“We were also here, using the same classrooms, halls, hostels and fields etc. and we too had our dreams and made it. You too shall make it. We are here to motivate you so that you may aspire to be even better than we are during your future days,” Prof. Gicharu, who is also the Chairperson of the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), said.
Having had the opportunity to interact with the mighty and the lowly in our societies both in Kenya and beyond borders, Prof. Gicharu’s word of encouragement and insights carried weight among the students.
‘Don’t be satisfied by average achievement’
“Each one of you is capable of being the best you would wish to be in your lives. Always aspire to be nothing else but the best that you can be for you have the capacity to be the best – strive to attain that. In doing that, do not be satisfied by average achievement, strive for the best.”
According to Prof. Gicharu, success is achieved through discipline, sacrifice and hard work.
But even as they strive towards success, the students were reminded that the journey is not all rosy. “While working towards your success, there will always be some challenges which you must face head on, without blaming anyone about them.”
Many Gen Zs today aspire to get instant success – fast money, fast recognition, immediate flashy lifestyles just to name but a few. However, Prof. Gicharu encouraged the boys to be men of patience, underscoring that real success is a process that requires time, skills and correct mindset.
“Pease do not be in a rush to look for quick success. You must grow firm roots before you reach the fruits of your success. Remember also, the temptation for fast success may lead to shoddy deals and a corrupt character.”
Choose your friends wisely
The boys were also encouraged to be wary of the company and friends they keep, with Prof Gicharu urging them to go for people with vision and discipline. “Friends may make you or break you. As the saying goes, ‘Show me your friends, and I will tell you who you are’. Yes, you need friends in life, but they must be quality friends.”
People in good company, he said, will assist each other to take good care of themselves – keeping away from drugs, irresponsible relationships, and destructive habits.
“Rather pick good friends for highest psycho-social support, friends who shall journey with you during your leisure time and assist each other in taking good care of your mind and body.
“Remember, what you do in your 20s shall affect your 40s and beyond. As the advice goes ‘Do not sacrifice your long-term well-being for short term thrills.’ Motivate each other for common gains.”
Develop saving culture
According to Prof. Gicharu, financial discipline is the biggest asset for anybody aspiring to lead a successful life and livelihood.
“Start the culture of savings right now – the Cooperative bank had initiated a programme on Jumbo Junior Savings. Do not be like my staff who a long time ago in explaining his absence from the institute then said, once he received his salary they were incompatible either had to get finished. Think big and create a higher goal.”
However, Prof Gicharu was quick to remind the students that money and a successful career is not everything if they will not have respect for parents, elders and God. “Appreciate those who sacrificed for you. Strive to have your anchor in God, and in your family. In times of crisis, they prove to be handy. However, learn to remain well connected with God and your family always and not only when crises come. Always learn to say thank you and be humble.”
Prof. Gicharu also took time to talk about the projects and achievements of the KICD in Kenya’s education sector, as well as issuing a rallying call to embrace innovation and technology in our lives.
