Kisii University Vice Chancellor Professor John Akama said he went to school barefooted and that his feet were infested with jiggers.
The VC said that classrooms were mud-walled and the floors had jiggers during the 70’s when he was in primary school.
Akama was speaking at the university when he launched his autobiography, ‘Undeterred: A rural Boy’s Journey to the pinnacle of Academia’ which he co authored with Author Joshua Araka.
The VC said he wrote the Book to motivate and inspire Kenyans, especially youths to share their childhood experiences.
‘I urge young people to write their autobiographies to share their experiences in their lives culturally, educationally, socially and environmentally,” Prof. Akama said.
The VC challenged Kenyans to spend more time reading books and spend less time on social media, stressing that books have more educational and informational materials to benefit them than what is on the internet.
He urged the youth to keep good company and work hard in order to be successful.
“Our fathers sustained their lives and maintained our cultural values as communities and a country. We should embrace the same,” Akama said.
He lauded his late mother Teresia Kwamboka for sacrificing her life to ensure that her children went to school, adding that she epitomises unsung heroines.
He said that there were no adequate books during his time, he wore shorts and walked to school and back home.
Prof. Bosire Monari who was the chief guest said Akama’s book reflects his childhood experience, hopes and challenges which helped propel him to greater academic heights.
Bosire who is the Meru University Council chairman lauded Akama for penning the book, stressing that he is consistent with accomplished university scholars.
“Having time to author a book is not a mean achievement. I urge Vice Chancellors to lead in transforming universities,” prof Bosire said.
He said Meru and Kisii university will partner solve emerging issues in Kenya and Africa.
Araka urged Akama to write more books and support young talented authors publish books to share their skills, knowledge and experiences.
