Philanthropist Hellen Atolwa has stepped in to support the family of Ronald Mbalanya, a student whose father recently passed away, leaving the family in dire financial straits. Mbalanya (left and right) could not pay fees after his father’s death. Ronald Mbalanya, who sat his KCPE exams at Emusutswi Primary School in Emuhaya Sub County, Vihiga County, faced significant challenges after losing his father. Mbalanya’s mother struggles financially With his mother unemployed, the family struggled to make ends meet, relying on whatever odd jobs she could find, including digging in people’s farms, to put food on the table. Hellen told TUKO.co.ke that Mbalanya’s dire situation came to light when the deputy headmaster of Emusutswi learned of his family’s circumstances. The one phenomenal thing about the teen is that he still clung to his studies despite paying primary school fees through turbulence. “When he recognised the urgent need for assistance, he brought the case to my attention,” Atolwa revealed. Families need support, Hellen Deeply moved by the family’s plight, the philanthropist offered financial support to cover the youngster’s high school fees for the entire year. Having scored 349 marks in his final primary school exams, the youngster was enrolled at International Village School in Vihiga County. Speaking about her decision to help, Hellen emphasised the importance of supporting families in times of hardship, especially in education. “No student should be deprived of such a fundamental right due to financial constraints,” Atolwa underpinned, adding that she was honoured to have been in a position to help. As Mbalanya settles back into school, his family can now rest assured knowing that they have the support and assistance they need for him to continue pursuing his education
by Hillary Lisimba
