Bumula MP Jack Wamboka has urged young people, particularly those from the Gen Zs, university students and those from tertiary institutions, to actively fight for their rights in order to safeguard their future livelihoods.
Speaking in his Constituency when he met university and middle level colleges, Wamboka said young people have historically played a critical role in driving governance reforms in Kenya, but expressed concern that today’s youth appear reluctant to stand up for their rights despite facing increasing oppression.
“Young people, especially Gen z, have always been at the forefront of change in this country. It pains me to see that the current generation is increasingly silent even when their rights are being trampled on,” said Wamboka.
The legislator said a consultative forum was aimed at discussing the future of education in Bumula Constituency and exploring ways of strengthening access to quality education for learners from poor backgrounds.
Further, the DAP-K MP noted that many of the reforms Kenya enjoys today were achieved through the sacrifices of young people who were bold enough to demand accountability and justice.
According to Wamboka, students in higher learning institutions have remained quiet even as government policies continue to undermine their welfare, including challenges related to education funding, unemployment and the rising cost of living.
“The government will not hand you your rights on a silver platter. You must organize yourselves, speak out and demand what is rightfully yours. Otherwise, you will continue to suffer while decisions that affect your lives are made without your input,” he added.
Bumula MP also cautioned young people against the misuse of social media, saying irresponsible online behavior has cost many youths’ employment opportunities and damaged their reputations. Instead, he encouraged them to use digital platforms constructively to build skills, networks and businesses that can improve their socio-economic status.
“Social media can either build you or destroy you. Use it wisely to empower yourselves, learn new skills and create opportunities, rather than engaging in content that will ruin your future,” Wamboka warned.
On education support, Wamboka assured students that his leadership is committed to ensuring that no deserving learner from a poor family is left behind pledging that all students from needy backgrounds who apply for bursaries in the constituency will receive financial assistance to support their studies.
“I want to assure you that under my leadership, every student from a disadvantaged family who submits a bursary application will be supported. Education remains the greatest equalizer and we must protect it,” he said.
