Utumishi Girls Academy founder explains why burnt dormitory was named after his daughter

Utumishi Girls Academy founder and former Kenya Police Service (KPS) Deputy Inspector General Edward Mbugua has shared the emotional story behind the naming of the school's dormitory that was recently destroyed by fire.

Speaking during a requiem mass held on Friday at Gilgil stadium in Nakuru County, Mbugua explained that the dormitory, known as Meline Waithera Dormitory, was named in honour of his late daughter, who died in a tragic road accident in 2021.

Addressing a large congregation of mourners, parents, students and guests, Mbugua recounted how his daughter, Meline Waithera, lost her life in a road accident in Nairobi.

"In June 2021, my daughter was involved in a road accident in Nairobi and she died at the scene. My friends and other people contributed towards her funeral expenses. After the funeral, there was some money left over and I told my family that the money would be put to another cause," he said.

Mbugua revealed that part of the funds raised following his daughter's death was later donated towards a fundraising drive at the school, contributing to the construction of the dormitory that was subsequently named after her.

"During a harambee, I donated Ksh.10 million. Part of it was my contribution and part of it came from the money that had been contributed for my daughter's funeral. I think I have made myself clear to those who have been asking what happened," he said.

The former police boss also raised concerns about Kenya's education system, questioning the rationale behind having boys and girls learn together from Grade One to Grade Nine before separating them at the senior school level.

"I'm not aware why the decision was made for students to learn together from Grade One up to Grade Nine, only to be separated when they proceed to Grade Ten," Mbugua said.

He argued that learners should instead be trained to work and interact together throughout their education journey.

Mbugua also reflected on the recent dormitory fire at the school, saying leaders and institutions must take responsibility whenever such incidents occur.

"Me, myself, I'm to blame. I started the school, and that is why I take responsibility for what happened," he said.