Man offers to educate 13-year-old boy who collected, sold plastics to fulfill his dream

- Ian Otieno's plight was highlighted by the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC)

- The 13-year-old who hails from a humble family took advantage of schools closures to collect plastic wastes from Dandora dumpsite and sell them

- Kennedy Odede who was raised in Kibra said he was touched by the boy's situation and promised to buy him a new bike and pay his school fees until he completes Form 4

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The inability to pay fees and other education expenses keep many children out of school leaving their dreams on the edge.

A young Dandora boy named Ian Otieno who collected plastics for sale with a dream of owning just a bicycle has been offered full education scholarship by one Kennedy Odede, founder of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO).

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Odede came to the rescue after the 13-year-old's plight was highlighted by the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC).

"l am in class 6 at James Gichuru Primary in Dandora. With the schools closed I am using this opportunity to go to the dumpsite and collect as much plastics as I can. I am trying to fund my dream of owning a bicycle.

I have always wanted a bike since I was little. When I pass through neighborhoods and see children riding their own bikes, I wish I too had my own, but my parents can’t afford to buy me one," Otieno told KHRC.

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The kind-hearted Odede who was raised in Kibra said he was touched by the boy's situation and promised to buy him a new bike and pay his school fees until he completes Form 4.

"This story of Ian Otieno has warmed my heart. I am going to buy him a new bike and pay his school fees until he reaches Form 4. Any young person who takes initiative should be encouraged and supported. I am where I am today because someone believed in me. I believe in you Ian!,"said Odede.

Otieno said he was paid GHC 5.00 to collect the plastics from Dandora dumpsite and had so far managed to save GHC 20.00

"I have enough energy and collecting plastics and selling them from the dumpsite for KSh 100 is a good idea for me to try and fund my dream of owning a bike,"

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I’ve saved KSh 400 so far since I also help my mum with some money since she doesn’t make enough from her businesses. Coronavirus is killing people. I don’t fear coronavirus. I make at least KSh 100 a day from the plastics. I need KSh 3,000 to get my bicycle. When I get a bike, I’ll be the happiest child," he added.

It was earlier reported about a teen who was rewarded with a car and scholarship for cleaning after protests in the US.

Antonio Gwynn, a high school student, received overwhelming support in his life and career after taking a generous measure to help his community.

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Source: YEN.com.gh