Kisii County Nominated Senator Essy Okenyuri has urged students to steer clear of drug and substance abuse.
She said already the vice is steadily eroding the future of young people across the country.
Speaking during a visit to St Francis Metembe High School in Bomachoge Borabu on Friday, the senator challenged learners to remain disciplined, focused on their studies and resistant to peer pressure.
“Your future is precious. Do not gamble it away through drugs and bad company,” she told the students.
“The choices you make today will determine the life you live tomorrow.”
Okenyuri is expected to vie for Woman Rep Seat in 2027.
The incumbent, Donya Toto will go for Bonchari MP seat.
The Senator expressed concern that cases of drug abuse among students have been rising, contributing to poor academic performance, indiscipline, and in some instances, mental health challenges.
“We are seeing more young people losing direction because of substance abuse. This is a crisis we must confront together as a society,” she said.
She commended St Francie Metembe school for its impressive academic performance in the previous year, noting that 115 students had successfully attained direct university entry—a milestone she described as “a beacon of hope for the community and a clear demonstration that excellence thrives where discipline and hard work are embraced.”
“This achievement shows what is possible when students commit themselves to their studies and when teachers and parents work together in support of learning,” she said.
She further encouraged continuing students to maintain discipline, embrace healthy competition, and remain focused on their academic goals, emphasizing that education remains the strongest tool for social and economic transformation.
“Education is the greatest equalizer in society. It is the bridge between poverty and opportunity, and we must ensure no learner is left behind due to avoidable challenges,” she added.
In line with her ongoing educational empowerment initiative under the Mchakato wa Usomi programme through the Essy Okenyuri Nyaituga Foundation, the senator also announced support for a needy but promising student at the school, Aaron Sagana.
The foundation fully settled his annual school fees to ensure financial hardship does not hinder his education.
Still on youth , she emphasized that the youth remain the country’s most valuable asset, urging them to protect themselves from harmful behaviours and negative influences.
The senator encouraged students to embrace hard work, discipline, moral values and positive friendships, noting that success in life is largely shaped by decisions made during school years.
“Do not allow temporary pleasure to destroy permanent opportunities,” she added. “Stay focused on your education and your goals.”
Okenyuri further urged for proper coordination between teachers, students and parents to ensure improved learning outcomes and overall success in schools.
She stressed that strong collaboration among all stakeholders is key to nurturing discipline and academic excellence.
She also called on parents and teachers to work closely in guiding learners and identifying early warning signs of drug abuse.
The senator stressed the importance of strengthening mentorship and counselling programmes in schools to help students cope with social pressures and personal challenges.
“Guidance and counselling should not be optional. Every school needs strong support systems to protect learners,” she said.
Okenyuri further urged security agencies and local leaders to intensify efforts against the sale and distribution of illegal drugs near learning institutions, warning traders involved in the trade that the law would eventually catch up with them.
“Those selling drugs to children are destroying the future of this nation. There will be consequences,” she warned.
School Principal Evans Onchweri praised the visit, noting that such mentorship forums play a key role in shaping character and motivating academic excellence.
The event brought together teachers, parents, and local leaders, who reiterated the need for collective responsibility in protecting young people from substance abuse.
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