As the nation continues to mourn students who lost their lives in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy, the school’s founder, Edward Mbugua, has shared the little-known story behind the institution’s establishment and the emotional significance of the dormitory that was destroyed in the blaze.
Source: Facebook
Speaking during a memorial event for the fallen students, Mbugua began by expressing heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
“Our condolences for the death of our students who perished in this unfortunate incident,” he said.
How Utumishi Girls started
Addressing discussions circulating on social media, Mbugua explained that many people were unaware of how the school came into existence.
According to him, the idea for Utumishi Girls Academy was born in July 2018 when he attended a prize-giving ceremony at Utumishi Boys High School during his first year as Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service.
While at the event, a parent challenged school leaders, questioning why there was a school for boys but none for girls.
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Moved by the suggestion, Mbugua immediately pledged KSh 100,000 towards the establishment of a girls’ school. Other well-wishers joined in, raising approximately KSh 300,000.
Construction began in September 2018, and by December 2019, the school was complete and inspected by the Ministry of Education. The institution welcomed its first cohort of students in 2020.
Why ill-fated dorm was named after founder’s late daughter
Mbugua also addressed questions surrounding the dormitory that was destroyed in the fire, confirming that it had been named after his late daughter.
He revealed that his daughter died in a road accident in Nairobi and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following her death, family, friends and well-wishers contributed generously towards her funeral expenses. However, after the burial, some funds remained unused.
Mbugua said he consulted his family and decided the money would be redirected to a meaningful cause rather than be spent elsewhere.
During a fundraising drive for the school, he donated KSh 10 million, part of which came from the remaining funeral contributions and part from his personal resources.
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The revelation has shed light on the deep personal sacrifice and emotional investment behind the growth of Utumishi Girls Academy, even as the school community grapples with one of its darkest moments.
Source: NGBREAKINGNEWS
