In a small village called Katito in Kisumu County, a child was born into a poor family whose livelihood depended on two donkeys.
Today, that child, Peter Amollo, defied all odds and serves as the Director of Awasi Hills View Academy, a thriving educational institution.
His remarkable journey from humble beginnings to educational success is an inspiration to all.
Here is his inspiring story as told by WoK.
Rising Above Adversity
Peter Amollo was the fourth child in a family of six, facing numerous challenges from a young age.
His father worked as a casual laborer, while his mother battled with sickness.
Despite financial struggles, Amollo attended Kowire Primary and later Awasi Mixed Secondary School.
Throughout his education, he juggled his studies with the responsibility of looking after the family’s two donkeys, which played a vital role in their meager income.
Turning Point and Determination
Amollo’s determination and resilience were evident during a pivotal moment in his life.
In Form Three, he was sent home from school due to unpaid fees. In a heartfelt gesture, his father, unable to afford the fees, offered the school their two donkeys.
“I vividly remember the day my late father gave the principal two donkeys because he had no money to clear my school fee arrears. I felt embarrassed being sent away in front of teachers and my fellow students,” Amollo said in a past interview.
Although embarrassed, Amollo did not lose hope.
Inspired by his unwavering dedication, the principal allowed him to continue his studies without fees, igniting a spark within him to make a difference in the field of education.
Finding Purpose through Education
After completing high school, Amollo found employment as a casual laborer in a sugarcane plantation.
However, a toe injury forced him to seek new opportunities.
He relocated to Nairobi, where he worked at construction sites before joining a steel company as a clerical officer in 1996.
During this time, he witnessed the transformation of individuals with special needs at Augustana College.
Armed with his Saving of KSh10,000 from his monthly salary, Omollo decided to enroll at Augustana College in Nairobi to study basic special education
“I saw how people with special needs; people with learning disabilities being shaped into productive persons. People with abnormally heavy tongues began talking. I saw people transform tremendously.” Omollo recalled.
Amollo realized that anyone, regardless of their background or challenges, could learn and lead productive lives.
The Birth of Awasi Hills View Academy
Driven by his passion for education, Amollo decided to establish his own school.
In 2010, he secured a bank and purchased Awasi Hills View Academy.
“starting a school is what was always on my mind. So when my friend told me he was selling his school, I went to the bank and borrowed money. I put the school itself as security in order to be granted the loan. And I am very happy because I’ve managed to touch people’s lives through education ever since,” said the father of four.
At the time of purchasing, the school comprised of just three grass-thatched classrooms on a five-acre plot.
To expand the school’s infrastructure and improve its offerings, he took another substantial loan of Ksh 7.5 million.
Despite the financial risks, Amollo’s dedication paid off. T
he academy’s academic performance soared, with the 2018 Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) results showcasing an impressive mean grade of 343.47.
Impact and Recognition
As of 2019, Awasi Hills View Academy stands as a testament to Amollo’s vision and unwavering commitment to education.
The school has grown significantly, boasting 13 classrooms, two school vans, and a team of more than 15 teachers and eight subordinate staff members.
Its academic achievements have gained recognition in the region, drawing the attention of local authorities.
Even though scholarships are not typically offered to private schools, the exceptional performance of a student from Awasi Hills View Academy led to an exception.
