It was a sombre moment when Derrick Macharia Githinji's name was called out on Saturday at Daystar University during the 41st graduation ceremony.
Macharia died four days to the graduation day after he was hit by a speeding motorbike in Ruiru, Naivas, along the Thika Super Highway.
His mother had sent him to the shop when the incident took place.
When his name was called out during the graduation ceremony, the student's mother went to receive the degree on his behalf as emotions rented the open field.
“Dear graduands, as you go to the world, shine and aspire to live a worthwhile legacy, because your achievements aren’t only celebrated in your lifetime but even after,” she told the graduates.
She was later honoured with a standing ovation from those who had attended the ceremony.
Macharia's family members, who were also in attendance accompanied the mother to receive her son's degree.
His friends described the deceased as a free-spirited individual who was full of life, treasured true friendship and loved children.
"He was a thinker, a good writer and also expressive in matters that mattered to him," one of his friends highlighted.
