In keeping with the vision of Ubuntu Life Foundation we believe all persons are entitled to education. We believe our neuro patients, including those who suffer from epilepsy have the right to education in integrated schools and other institutions as well as the right to be treated with respect and decency. Children with epilepsy may have to leave school because of frequent uncontrolled seizures, which also hinder their ability to learn in regular classrooms. While some kids may need special care we believe that if a child can meet all standards to go to a mainstream school that should not be an option that is taken from them rather teachers and schools should be trained to be accommodating.
So in line with those ideals and objectives we are so happy to report eleven children who were either unable to attend school or had dropped out entirely since January were able to return after their seizures were under control. These are some of those amazing success stories from our kids who are always ready to overcome a challenge:
Our first story comes from Jackson Njoroge who attended Elementary school until grade 6 but due to repeated convulsions that started in his early youth, he was forced to drop out. This was extremely Tragic as he was a student that was repeatedly in the top ten of his class. However, he was unable to continue in school due to the severe repeated seizures which were worsening month after month. His seizures have now been effectively managed by neuro intervention and after 4 years away from school Jackson was eager to return. Since Jackson required special education, he enrolled in Ubuntu Special School in June, while his peers were starting their first year of high school. We love his infectious smile around the school as it shows so much joy because he has returned to school.
The second story comes from James Wanjiru, one of our most energetic kids. James, who is in Grade 4, began having seizures in October and missed the last semester of 2023. His condition did not get better after being treated at different clinics. Since enrolling in the Ubuntu neurology programme in November, he has made great progress in controlling his seizures. In January 2024, he was allowed to return to school and is able to do so without incident. For that we are very thankful and we will continue to monitor his progress to ensure James continues his journey in education uninterrupted.
Last but certainly not least Mary Nyambura. While Mary was at school our social workers paid her a visit to see how she was doing. After speaking with her class teacher and headteacher, they both acknowledged that they had thought about letting her go from school since her convulsions were interfering with the curriculum. This meant she was missing a lot of school because of her seizures. Teachers expressed however they are happy she is attending the school because she is an excellent student and eager to learn. So it made us so proud to see her get her seizures under control and head back to school full time. Since returning her academic performance has improved and she has regained her self-esteem, which was impacted by her active seizures. Mary is scheduled to take her national examinations in December with the intention of entering high school. We wish her all the best and we know she will pass the exams with flying colors!
