Resilience Rewarded: Gladys Gaki, 40-Year-Old Housemaid, Earns Full University Scholarship
Despite facing hardships such as homelessness and food insecurity, Gladys persevered, earning a Diploma in Criminology from Tharaka University, Kenya, and subsequently graduating with a certificate in Criminology and Security Studies from the same institution. Undeterred by her difficult circumstances, she continued her educational journey, currently pursuing a Diploma in the second semester.
AKACHI NOEL 
In an inspiring tale of determination and triumph, Gladys Gaki, a 40-year-old housemaid, has returned to school after years of caregiving, earning a diploma and securing a full scholarship to pursue higher education.
Gladys faced formidable challenges, having been abandoned by her mother at a young age, surviving sexual abuse, and losing her businesses and home, which led to a period of depression. Rescued by a compassionate clergyman and his wife, Gladys was provided with an opportunity to return to school at the age of 40.
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Despite facing hardships such as homelessness and food insecurity, Gladys persevered, earning a Diploma in Criminology from Tharaka University, Kenya, and subsequently graduating with a certificate in Criminology and Security Studies from the same institution. Undeterred by her difficult circumstances, she continued her educational journey, currently pursuing a Diploma in the second semester.
Gladys shared the challenges she overcame, including sleeping outside due to inability to pay rent and undertaking menial jobs like laundry and loading lorries to sustain herself. She re-enrolled in school 26 years after dropping out due to circumstances beyond her control.
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Her determination caught the attention of university officials when she wrote a letter expressing her need to delay studies due to financial challenges. In response, the Vice-Chancellor awarded Gladys a full scholarship, covering her studies from a bachelor's to a master's degree.
Expressing gratitude to the university for the scholarship, Gladys pledged to give back to the community and pursue her dream of earning a doctorate degree. Her story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative impact of education, proving that age and adversity are not barriers to pursuing one's dreams.
