43-year-old Gladys Gakii has gone back to school in Form 3 at Kiamuriuki Secondary School in Tharaka Nithi County after she dropped out 26 years ago.
Gakii confesses that she has always wanted to complete her education, get a job and be independent in life.
Her education came to a sudden halt after she was raped at 16 and her adoptive parents discontinued supporting her financially.
“Many years after dropping out of school, I have always wanted to go back. Many of my friends ask for my certificates to help me get a job but I have none,” Gakii says.
After her birth, Gakii adds, she was adopted by a nurse after her mother dumped her near a river.
Before she decided to go back to school after long 26 years, she had tried various businesses which bore no fruits.
The school’s principal, Rachael Koome, is optimistic about Gladys and says that she is very bright and determined.