The Reason Poem by Eunice Musiime

The Reason I went to school
Was it not to gain the grand certificate
Or be counted among the family heir looms
And be proudly shown off at graduation parties
To also tantalize those that would come after me

The Reason I went to school
Was it not to be assured of a high flyer job
Or be among those driving posh cars
As I live in an equally plush home
To the chagrin of the rest of the wanaichi

The reason I went to school
Was it not for me to question injustice
Or seek to end poverty through innovation, invention and investment
And fight for my country’s freedom, liberty and dignity
To secure a future of happiness and opportunity for all

The reason I went to school
Was it to leave me fearful, powerless and virtue less
Or selfish, greedy and uncaring about society
And ashamed that others will see
What my school has dressed me in