Another KCSE Candidate Dies After Lack of Medical Cover.
In Shinyalu, Kakamega County, a family is grieving the sudden death of their son, a Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidate, who passed away at home due to the lack of medical cover for hospitalization.
The deceased, Eugene Makale, reportedly began with a sore throat, which later escalated, ultimately claiming his life.
Makale’s father recounted that his son had fallen seriously ill in the evening and had trouble swallowing food due to intense throat pain.
As the illness progressed, they were forced to rely on over-the-counter drugs purchased from a nearby facility due to financial constraints.
Impact of Scrapped EduAfya Scheme on Students
The family pointed out that the government’s decision to eliminate the EduAfya medical scheme has critically affected students nationwide, removing access to healthcare during emergencies.
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This policy change, they argued, diminished their son’s chances of receiving proper treatment in a life-threatening situation. Despite their attempts to relieve Makale’s pain, his condition worsened. Upon finally reaching the hospital, he succumbed to his illness.
Teachers at St. Joseph Mukulusu Secondary School, where Makale was sitting his exams, expressed concern over how the discontinuation of the EduAfya Insurance has hit students from underprivileged families the hardest.
They shared that Makale had mentioned his condition during the examination period, but his symptoms rapidly declined, leaving everyone in shock.
Makale’s classmates observed that he was visibly weakened throughout the first week of exams, with his sore throat affecting his ability to eat. His peers tried to encourage him to eat to maintain his strength, but his condition persisted.
The students voiced frustration over persistent drug shortages at Shamakhubu, the local health facility, which limited access to essential medical care for residents like Makale’s family.
Rising Incidents During KCSE Examinations
Makale’s death marks the third tragedy during this KCSE examination period. In another recent incident, 19-year-old Calistus Wamboye collapsed and died while awaiting his mathematics exam on Tuesday, November 5.
ALSO READ: Candidates and Parents Defrauded in KCSE Exam Paper Scam on Telegram
These incidents highlight ongoing healthcare and support challenges faced by students in vulnerable communities.
Another KCSE Candidate Dies After Lack of Medical Cover
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