KERIO VALLEY – Amid the challenges of instability and social barriers in Kerio Valley, Michelle Jepruto has emerged as an academic beacon, having excelled in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams with a grade of A in 2023. Her journey showcases the transformative power of education and dedicated scholarship support.
According to Kenya News Agency, her success was significantly aided by the Elimu Scholarship, initiated by the Ministry of Education and implemented by Equity Bank. She was among the top performers in Elgeyo Marakwet County and credits her uninterrupted schooling to the financial and material support provided by the scholarship. “I was always in school, unlike some children whose studies were interrupted when they were sent home for fees or other items,” she explained during a tour with Ministry of Education officials who visited her home to understand the local challenges.
Michelle’s academic journey is notable not only for her personal achievements but also for overcoming societal challenges prevalent in her community, such as early marriage, female genital mutilation, and teen pregnancy. Her determination and hard work have made her a role model in her community, inspiring a local mantra, “Tunataka tusome kama Michelle” (We want to study like Michelle).
The Elimu Scholarships are part of a broader initiative funded by the World Bank aimed at improving the quality of education in Kenya. Michelle is one of many beneficiaries who have received a lifeline through this program, which has enabled students from challenging backgrounds to pursue their education without hindrance.
Michelle is optimistic about her future educational prospects, aiming for a scholarship to study abroad. However, she has secured a place at Meru University to pursue nursing, aligning with her long-term goal of contributing to healthcare in her community. Her remarkable transition from scoring 299 marks in her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exams to achieving an A in the KCSE exemplifies the impact of educational support systems.
Everlyn Chepkorir, Michelle’s mother, highlighted the broader family benefits derived from Michelle’s success. The Equity Leadership program and subsequent employment have significantly improved the family’s standard of living. “Michelle has enabled my other children to go to school; they are not sickly since they eat well, among other interventions that go into raising a big family while at the same time being able to save,” Chepkorir said.
Despite the persistent security challenges in the region, as evidenced by gunfire during the education officials’ visit, Michelle and her academic achievements symbolize hope and resilience. Her story is a powerful reminder of the enduring value of education as an equalizer in society.
