In a somber incident at the University of Nairobi's Kabete Campus, a first-year student was found lifeless outside his hostel premises on Wednesday evening.
According to a source who spoke with the media, the student, whose identity remains undisclosed, is believed to have taken his own life. The source revealed that the young student had exhibited unusual behavior leading up to his tragic demise, such as leaving his hostel early in the morning and returning late in the evenings.
The source also disclosed that the deceased had visited Anniversary Towers in the two days preceding the incident, possibly in connection to issues related to a government scholarship. Financial struggles were cited as another concern, with the student anxiously awaiting confirmation of his eligibility for the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funds.
"He was studying Agricultural Education and Extension at UoN, Upper Kabete Campus," the source, opting for anonymity, shared. "He had some financial issues. The last two days, he went to Anniversary Towers; he had issues with a government scholarship. He had not received the HELB funds."
Reportedly, the deceased was found with only Ksh5 in his pocket, and a farewell note addressed to friends and family was discovered alongside him. Described as an introvert, the late student seldom shared his challenges with friends, maintaining a reserved demeanor.
The university community is grappling with the tragic loss of a promising student, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness and support within academic institutions.