After a persistent 21-year struggle, Judith Akoth, a 39-year-old nurse, has achieved a significant milestone by graduating with a diploma from the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) in Siaya. Her journey has been a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. This recent accomplishment comes after she sat for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in 2002, achieving a commendable B-.
Born on October 26, 1984, Judith faced early hardships when she lost her parents at the tender age of ten, leaving her in the care of her maternal grandparents. Despite these early challenges, she displayed remarkable academic promise and emerged as the 3rd highest scorer in her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examination in 1998, earning the top spot in her school and region.
Despite facing financial constraints and attending multiple day schools, Judith persevered and completed her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in 2002, securing a B-. She attributes her success to her unwavering determination and resilience.
Her life took a different turn upon entering college as her grandmother passed away due to diabetes, leading her to an early marriage at the age of 18. This marriage marked a significant shift in her life, but years later, a glimmer of hope emerged while she was caring for her sick aunt.
A chance encounter with a perceptive peasant farmer proved to be a turning point. He saw something exceptional in Judith and foresaw her success as a nurse. This encounter ignited a spark of determination and self-belief within her.
Encouraged by the farmer’s words, Judith took a leap of faith and enrolled at KMTC Siaya Campus in March 2020. Her journey was far from easy, marked by opposition from her family and a significant ankle injury in January of that year. Nevertheless, she persevered, driven by her unwavering determination.
However, just two months before her final qualifying exams, tragedy struck when she lost her husband. This heartbreaking loss could have shattered her hopes for life, but she remained steadfast and resolute in her pursuit.
Receiving the devastating news of her husband’s passing while on rural placement, Judith faced a world that seemed to crumble around her. Yet, she refused to be broken and emerged as a living testament to the strength of a determined heart. She emphasized that age is merely a number and that at 39, she achieved her diploma, with her journey far from over.
Drawing from her own experiences, Judith now seeks to inspire others not to give up but to exhibit resilience in the pursuit of their dreams. Her message to women everywhere is to hold onto their dreams regardless of the obstacles they face. She calls for mutual support and encouragement among women, advocating for uplifting each other instead of becoming obstacles. Together, she believes they can change societal perceptions about KMTC and reshape attitudes by upholding morality and doing what is right. Judith’s story is a remarkable illustration of the power of determination and the human spirit in the face of adversity.
