MKU offers unconditional admission to student who walked 250km to fund his education

Duncan Kibet / MKU X

After an 11-year break since completing high school and a grueling 250-kilometer walk from Bomet to the capital to raise funds for university fees, Duncan Kibet’s persistence has finally paid off.

Mount Kenya University (MKU) has offered Kibet unconditional admission to pursue a Bachelor of Education degree, stepping in to support a young man whose determination captured public attention.

Kibet recently undertook the 250 km trek in a bold effort to mobilise financial support for his studies, underscoring both the economic hurdles he faced and his unwavering commitment to becoming a teacher.

His journey resonated widely, drawing admiration from Kenyans moved by his resilience.

In a statement, MKU confirmed that it would not only admit him unconditionally but also provide accommodation at the university hostels as he completes the remaining admission requirements.

“Duncan Kibet Receives Unconditional Admission to MKU: After an 11‑year break since high school and a 250 km walk to raise funds for his Bachelor of Education degree, Duncan Kibet’s story is a remarkable testament to courage, resilience, and the transformative power of education,” the statement on X read.

“Mount Kenya University (MKU) has now granted him unconditional admission and will accommodate him at the MKU hostels as he completes his admission requirements. Let’s join hands and support Duncan as he begins this new academic journey.”

Although he completed his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education over ten years ago, financial constraints stood in the way of his transition to university.

During his 250-kilometre journey, strangers stepped forward with meals, modest contributions that totaled Sh12,000, and words of encouragement, moved by his resolve.

What began as a personal effort to raise fees soon evolved into a broader symbol of resilience and determination.

Kibet was raised by a single mother and had earlier shelved his academic ambitions to help support his younger siblings, prioritising their education over his own.

The university’s intervention marks a turning point for Kibet, who had put his academic ambitions on hold for more than a decade due to financial constraints. His story has since become a powerful example of grit in the face of adversity.

“His determination reminds us that no dream is too distant when the spirit is willing,” MKU said.

For Kibet, the admission represents more than just a place in a lecture hall. It is the fulfilment of a dream deferred and proof that persistence, even after years away from the classroom, can open doors.