1,300 students from Eldoret to meet leader
Students from various schools sponsored by the Eldoret Catholic Diocese travel to meet with Pope Francis at Safaricom Kasarani Stadium on November 27, 2015. Several students who spoke to the Nation said the encounter with the head of the Catholic Church will be an experience of a lifetime and will leave a mark on their lives. PHOTO | JARED NYATAYA | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- Father Jonas Kiplimo of the Eldoret Diocese, said Pope Francis would hold discussions with the group on rising radicalisation and drug abuse among the youth in the country.
At least 1,300 young people from various schools, colleges and universities in Eldoret Thursday travelled to Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi to meet Pope Francis.
Most of the students are from the Youth Catholic Association and will be part of a group expected to share a platform with the visiting pontiff on Friday.
Father Jonas Kiplimo of the Eldoret Diocese, said Pope Francis would hold discussions with the group on rising radicalisation and drug abuse among the youth in the country.
“The pope usually says young people are the strength and future of society, who need to be handled with love,” said Fr Kiplimo.
He said several students will have a chance to share their testimonies at the event.
“There is one, a former radicalised student from Bungoma, who will share his experiences. There is also a girl who attempted abortion,” said Fr Kiplimo.
Several students who spoke to the Nation said the encounter with the head of the Catholic Church will be an experience of a lifetime and will leave a mark on their lives.
Stephen Kipkosgei, 16, from Terige High School said he expects the pope to impact positively on his life.
“Most of the youth face peer pressure with regard to drugs and teenage pregnancy,” said the Form Three student.
Sing’ore Girls High School Principal Rose Koech said: “We hope the 50 students we chose will share the lessons they will learn with fellow students here.”
