As the country’s economy continues to struggle, many Kenyans are finding it increasingly difficult to pursue quality education.
Upon completing secondary school, many students face significant challenges in joining higher education institutions due to insufficient funds, which make it nearly impossible for them to achieve their educational dreams.
Such is the story of Ambrose Kiplangat Korir, who was unable to join the University of Nairobi after completing his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) two years ago at Maseno School. Kiplangat, who scored a B plain in the 2022 KCSE exams, was admitted to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Education.
“I was admitted to study a Bachelor of Science in Education at the University of Nairobi, but I had to forfeit the opportunity because I couldn’t collect my leaving certificate and other necessary documents from Maseno School,” said Korir, who has an outstanding balance of Sh 52,000 in school fees.
Kiplangat’s high school journey was fraught with difficulties, as he was frequently sent home due to unpaid fees. “I managed to stay in school, but I completed my exams with a fee balance of Sh 52,000. Part of that debt was ‘Development Money,’ which was introduced when I was in Form Four, requiring us to pay Sh 6,000 per term. The rest was arrears that I had accumulated since Form Three,” he explained.
Unable to clear his fees at Maseno School, which prevented him from obtaining his result slip and KCSE certificate—both essential for university admission—Kiplangat resorted to doing menial jobs to afford food and other basic needs while he waits for a sponsor to assist him.
“My parents cannot afford to clear the fees at Maseno School or pay for my university education,” said Kiplangat, the sixth born in a family of ten. He added that all his older siblings, who were also unable to complete their studies, are now married, while the younger ones are at various stages of their education.
“I believe that a university education will give me the chance to get a good job and ultimately transform my life and that of my family,” Korir said.
