Jared Omondi Atellah, a 37-year-old boda boda rider from Nyalenda Five Ways, can now breathe easier after a group of compassionate advocates came to his aid. Jared Omondi, a Kisumu boda boda rider, is set to join Kenya School of Law. Omondi had faced significant financial challenges after securing admission to the Kenya School of Law and had been struggling to raise the necessary funds to continue his education. Speaking exclusively with TUKO.co.ke, the single father of two disclosed that a group of advocates raised KSh 235,000 in just three days to help him return to school and achieve his dream. “I am very much grateful for the advocates who came to my aid. In just three days, my entire tuition fee and exam money have been paid. I thank God for them,” he said. “I am passionate about studying law because it pains me when innocent people are jailed because they cannot defend themselves,” Omondi added.
“I will even offer pro bono services to those who cannot afford legal representation.” Omondi also faced a setback when a WhatsApp group he created to seek support for his education was mistakenly flagged as spam, though it was eventually restored. Why was Jared Omondi’s graduation delayed? The boda boda rider had been set to graduate in 2017, but setbacks, including losing his job, forced him to abandon his academic aspirations for years. In 2020, he turned to the boda boda business to support his family. Despite the hardships, Omondi remained determined, sharing his journey with those who doubted him, including those who believed he hadn’t even completed primary school. “I knew God’s timing was best,” he said, reflecting on the struggles he faced in silence. However, to raise money for his graduation, he sold his motorcycle, and his long-awaited graduation finally took place in 2023. “I had to top up the fees to graduate after they were increased,” he explained.
Why is Jared Omondi seeking more help? However, he is still in need of additional funds for accommodation, transport, and a laptop for his studies. Omondi’s personal life has also been marked by hardship. His wife left when their children were just two and three years old, and now, with his mother caring for his children, he is committed to paying their school fees while pursuing his law degree. “Currently, I need about KSh 150,000 for rent and transport for the year, as well as to cover my children’s school fees. The paybill number is 247247 and the account number is 337983. Account name is JARED OMONDI EDUCATION SUPPORT,” he shared. The Kenya School of Law has confirmed that candidates must complete their registration between January 13 and 31, or risk losing their admission offer unless they request a deferment within the same period.
by Nancy Odindo