Rongo University has been more than just an academic institution to me; it has been a crucible of growth, inspiration, and transformative experiences that have shaped my passion and purpose beyond my degree in Education Science (Physics and Chemistry). Over the four years, I have not only honed my academic expertise but also championed initiatives and embraced opportunities that have left an indelible mark on both the university community and myself.
One of my most significant contributions was founding the Rongo University Counselling Club, under the patronage of Dr Millan Okello. This initiative became a beacon of hope for students grappling with life’s challenges, fostering a culture of emotional resilience and mental well-being.
Alongside this, I spearheaded the Rongo University Environment Club, mentored by Dr George Ocholla, Dr Carren Otieno together with Prof Nyamae, which led to the planting and growing of numerous trees in and around the university even organizing Intervarsity Environmental Symposium, a legacy of sustainability for future generations.
Additionally, I was instrumental in the activities of the Rongo University Integrity Club, guided by Prof Wilson Otengah, which championed ethical behaviour among students, nurturing a culture of accountability and responsibility.
My engagement extended to other vibrant university communities, including the Writers’ Club, SDGs Club, and Gender Club.
These platforms ignited my creativity and passion for advocacy, culminating in the publication of my first book, Secrecy Behind Leadership, with a second book in progress. As a member of the Writers’ Club, under the mentorship of Dr Marren Atieno, I honed my skills in writing, which also saw my environmental advocacy featured in newspaper articles. These experiences enriched my understanding of leadership, sustainability, and social impact.
Beyond campus activities, I was privileged to be part of the judging team for the 7th Edition of Young Scientists Kenya (YSK), evaluating abstracts in the Social and Behavioural Sciences category. This honor underscored my commitment to fostering innovation and critical thinking among youth. My efforts were further recognized when I was shortlisted for the Career Fair & Expo Challenge 2024 and the Kenya Climate Innovation Challenge 2024.
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A pivotal moment came when I was selected to participate in a climate-resilience project in partnership with my university and the University of Portsmouth, UK. Funded by the British Council and facilitated by Circle Innovation under the Learning and Design Lab (LDL), the project provided invaluable insights into sustainability practices and industry collaboration through GreenSpoon Industry. This opportunity deepened my resolve to address environmental challenges through innovative solutions.
My selection as a fellow under the BeVisioneers Planet-Positive Challenge, facilitated by DO School in Berlin and funded by Mercedes-Benz, marked another milestone in my journey. This fellowship sharpened my entrepreneurial skills and expanded my capacity to drive impactful, planet-positive initiatives. Furthermore, I was recently shortlisted for the Food Tech Challenge 2025 under Jacob’s Ladder (Green Lab), reinforcing my commitment to sustainable development.
Environmental education
My advocacy for environmental education has not gone unnoticed. Africa for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), led by Dr Joe Bongah, applauded my dedication, and I gained recognition from Kenya Tobacco Control and Health Promotion Alliance (KETCA) under Dr Joel Gitali. Through an online course on Tobacco Industry Monitoring and Policy Advocacy offered by the University of Pretoria, I participated in the review of Kenya’s Tobacco Control Act of 2007, in collaboration with KETCA and the Ministry of Health.
These cumulative experiences inspired me to establish Nurture Green Africa Foundation (NGAF), an organization aimed at revolutionizing environmental conservation literacy across Africa and beyond. Rongo provided the fertile ground for these dreams to take root, and I am eternally grateful for the mentorship, opportunities, and community that propelled me toward a path of impact and purpose.
By Tonny O. Blair
Blair is graduate of Rongo University, Teacher Of Chemistry & Chemistry, Environmental Visioneer, and Tobacco Control (TC) Champion.
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