West Pokot school center stage in the fight against FGM

Amidst the rugged terrain and challenges of West Pokot County, Tipet Girls Secondary School stands as a beacon of hope for young girls facing daunting obstacles.

Nestled in a remote area, the school grapples with dire infrastructure deficiencies, but its spirit of resilience and commitment to education shines brightly.

During our visit to the school we encountered the perilous crossing of the Turkwel River as a daunting challenge for teachers and students alike at Tipet Girls Secondary School.

With no accessible road, we also braved the treacherous waters, risking encounters with lurking crocodiles.

Each crossing is a test of courage and resilience, as they navigate the murky depths to reach the school.

Despite the inherent dangers, their determination to pursue education triumphs over fear.

The Turkwel River stands as both a formidable barrier and a symbol of their unwavering resolve to overcome adversity in their quest for knowledge.

File image of West Pokot school offering shelter to FGM victims: Photo./[Courtesy]

Madam Ephy Mugalo, the principal of Tipet Girls Secondary School, speaks passionately about the school’s mission as a rescue center for vulnerable girls.

“Many of the girls we welcome here are escaping early marriages, FGM, and poverty,” she explains.

“We accept them without hesitation, providing a safe haven for them to pursue their education.”

The school’s population has grown significantly since its inception in 2021, now accommodating 120 students from various regions, including Kachelibs, Kasei, and Makutano.

However, inadequate funding and administrative challenges hinder the school’s ability to fulfill its crucial role effectively.

“Our students face numerous obstacles, starting with the lack of birth certificates, which affects our funding allocation,” laments Madam Mugalo.

“Without proper documentation, we struggle to secure adequate resources for essential needs such as food and teaching staff.”

Indeed, staffing shortages plague the school, with only three TSC teachers on staff. Volunteer teachers fill the gaps, but financial constraints prevent the hiring of additional qualified educators.

“Our teachers work tirelessly on a voluntary basis, driven by their dedication to empowering these girls through education,” Madam Mugalo remarks.

The school’s poor condition that have become a challenge to the girls

The school’s infrastructure woes compound its challenges. Incomplete classrooms double as makeshift dormitories, exposing students to harsh conditions and safety hazards.

“Our classrooms are open, inviting in insects, snakes, and even donkeys that devour students’ books,” explains Madam Mugalo.

“We lack proper desks and chairs, forcing many students to sit on makeshift wooden and stones structures during lessons.”

Despite these adversities, the school perseveres, leveraging limited resources to provide a conducive learning environment.

However, crucial amenities such as a dormitory, laboratory, and library remain elusive dreams, hindering the school’s ability to offer comprehensive education.

Loshamir Albert, the deputy principal, emphasizes the school’s exclusion from co-curricular activities due to logistical challenges.

“The remote location and lack of resources prevent our participation in county-wide activities,” he states.

“Additionally, our academic pursuits suffer due to the absence of essential facilities like a laboratory and library.”

Student voices echo the hardships they face. Lilian Cherop, a form one student, shares her ordeal of being forced into marriage by her parents.

“I came to school with nothing, hoping to escape the fate awaiting me at home,” she tearfully reveals. Vivian Cheruto, another form one student, echoes Lilian’s plea for government intervention to protect girls from early marriages.

Sabina Wanjiru, a dedicated student at Tipet Girls Secondary School, sheds light on academic challenges exacerbated by infrastructure deficiencies.

“The lack of a printing machine and electricity hampers our ability to access study materials and take exams,” she explains.

“Security concerns due to the absence of fencing further compound our anxieties. Sometimes warriors storm our school in attempt to escape with students “

Despite these trials, parents like Chepsonjo Sirmuk commend the school’s efforts in rescuing girls from early marriages.

“We appeal to well-wishers to support the school in building essential facilities and providing for students’ needs,” she urges.

“Together, we can empower these girls to pursue their dreams and break free from the cycle of poverty and oppression.”

Tipet Girls Secondary School’s story is one of perseverance, courage, and unwavering commitment to transforming lives through education.

As the school continues to navigate its challenges, it remains a testament to the indomitable spirit of hope and resilience in the face of adversity