- Kenneth Kiprono was born into a family so poor that relatives often told him that education was not meant for them
- Worn down by years of financial strain, his father once asked him whether he would agree to a KSh 200,000 grant from a relative to start a business
- The offer was tempting, but he rejected it and chose to pluck tea and do odd jobs to raise fees, a decision that culminated in his graduation
Born and raised in the modest village of Kiptuigo in Kabianga Ward, Kericho County, Kenneth Kiprono’s journey to academic achievement is a powerful tale of resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Source: UGC
From an early age, he carried big dreams in a home where resources were scarce and hope often felt like a luxury.
Kenneth told TUKO.co.ke that he began his education at Kalplutiet Primary School, navigating a childhood marked by financial struggles and heavy household responsibilities.
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Given the nature of his background, he often met discouraging remarks from relatives who insisted that “education was not meant for their family.”
With many siblings to care for and constant pressure to abandon school, he learned responsibility and resilience far earlier than most children.
Throughout his primary and secondary school years, Kenneth supported himself through earnings from hard manual labour.
Kenneth plucked tea for fees
When schools reopened and pocket money was needed, he plucked tea, worked on farms, and spent long hours at his grandmother’s home doing whatever jobs he could find just to stay in school.
Every shilling he earned was a step toward keeping his dream alive. But the discouragement did not end there. During his teenage years, some of his aunts told him that pursuing education was a waste of time.
Even his father, worn down by years of financial strain, once asked him whether he would rather take KSh 200,000 to start a business instead of continuing with school.
Kenneth asked for a week to think, and returned not for the money, but with an admission letter to the Rift Valley Institute of Business Studies.
Where did Kenneth graduate from?
He was determined to choose education. As he grew into adulthood, new blessings arrived. Kenneth got engaged and started a family, a milestone that strengthened his resolve to secure a better future.
He enrolled at the Rift Valley Institute of Business Studies to pursue a Diploma in Supply Chain Management.
But the journey was far from smooth. Financial challenges forced him to pause his studies multiple times, stretching a short programme into a long, difficult path that tested his patience and determination.
Still, Kenneth refused to give up. When he finally returned to complete his diploma, he excelled, proving not only to himself but to everyone who once doubted him that perseverance triumphs over hardship.
What are Kenneth’s future plans?
Today, Kenneth stands proudly as a graduate who rose above discouragement, financial strain, and societal expectations.
His next goal is already set: to pursue CPA and become a fully qualified professional in Supply Chain Management.
Beyond building a secure future for his family, he hopes to uplift his community and show young people that their dreams are valid, no matter where they come from.
KCA graduate takes degree to father’s grave
In another heartwarming story, Nelly dreamed of taking a graduation photo beside her father, never imagining she would one day do it at his graveside.
However, fate had other plans as the man who had been her cheerleader throughout campus died before she completed.
Draped in her gown, Nelly carried her degree home to his grave, turning a moment of sorrow into a powerful reminder of love that endures even after goodbye.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
