SILENT STRUGGLES: Chuka University Students Grapple with Hardships

The Burden of High Costs

From the moment a student steps off a matatu in Chuka town, the economic burden is clear. The cost of living around Ndagani has risen sharply in recent years, with rent for modest hostels shooting from KSh 3,000 to as high as KSh 8,000 per month. Jane Mwende, a third-year Education student, shares, “Some of us have to share tiny rooms or move further away from campus just to afford rent. It’s exhausting walking long distances every day.”

Water Scarcity Woes

Water, a basic necessity, is another major challenge. During the dry seasons, taps around Ndagani often run dry for weeks. Students are forced to trek for kilometers to fetch water from unreliable sources, risking both their health and safety. “We have to choose between attending classes or queuing for water early in the morning,” says Brian Mutuma, a first-year student.

Insecurity at Night

As night falls, fear grips many students living in isolated areas of Ndagani. Cases of mugging and burglary have risen sharply, particularly around less populated hostels. “You can’t walk alone after 7 PM without risking being robbed," says Sheila Wanja, a fourth-year student. Although local authorities have made efforts to deploy more patrols, students feel that much still needs to be done to guarantee their safety.

Limited Internet and Power Outages

In an increasingly digital world, reliable internet access is no longer a luxury — it's essential. Yet, many students complain of poor connectivity, which hampers their ability to conduct research and submit assignments. Coupled with frequent electricity blackouts, particularly during the rainy season, academic work becomes a constant battle against time.

Mental Health Challenges

The pressures of financial strain, academic expectations, and poor living conditions have taken a toll on students' mental health. Few can afford professional counseling, and stigma around mental health remains high. “Sometimes you feel overwhelmed but you don't know where to turn,” confides Peter Njeru, a second-year Computer Science student.

Calls for Action

Students are now calling for urgent interventions. Many suggest that the university should partner with local landlords to regulate rent, improve water supply infrastructure, enhance security patrols, and establish accessible counseling centres. “We love our university,” says Mwende passionately, “but we need a better environment to thrive, not just survive.”

As Chuka University continues to shine academically, it is clear that addressing these silent struggles will be key in unlocking the full potential of its vibrant student body. After all, education is not only about what happens in the lecture halls — it is also about the quality of life beyond them.