After more than a decade away from the classroom and a gruelling 250-kilometre walk to raise funds for his education, Duncan Kibet has finally received a breakthrough that could change his life.
Mount Kenya University (MKU) has granted Kibet unconditional admission to pursue a Bachelor of Education degree, marking the end of an 11-year wait since he completed high school. The university has also offered him accommodation at its hostels as he completes his admission requirements.
In confirming the decision, MKU described Kibet’s journey as “a remarkable testament to courage, resilience, and the transformative power of education.” The institution added that it was committed to supporting him as he embarks on his academic journey, noting that “no dream is too distant when the spirit is willing.”
Kibet’s story captured national attention after he set out on foot from Bomet County to Nairobi, covering roughly 250 kilometres in a bid to raise funds and attract support for his long-held dream of going to university. Despite completing his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education more than a decade ago, financial hardship had prevented him from enrolling in higher education.
Along the way, well-wishers offered him food, small donations and encouragement, as his determination resonated with many Kenyans. His journey became a powerful symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Raised by a single mother, Kibet previously put his own ambitions on hold to support his younger siblings, ensuring that they had opportunities he could not afford at the time. His decision to finally pursue his own education has been widely praised as an example of self-belief and sacrifice.
MKU’s move to admit and support him has been welcomed by education advocates, who see it as a reflection of the university’s commitment to expanding access to learning and empowering determined students regardless of their background.
The university has also appealed to members of the public to join hands in supporting Kibet as he begins this new chapter, saying his story is a reminder that education remains one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives.
With his admission now secured, Kibet is preparing to report to campus, turning a long and difficult journey into the first step toward fulfilling his dream of becoming a teacher.
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