Charles Nyagero, a determined man from Kisii, has achieved an extraordinary milestone by graduating from Kenyatta University with a Bachelor of Education degree, 18 years after first enrolling. His journey, marked by resilience and unwavering faith, serves as an inspiration to many.
Nyagero’s academic odyssey began in 2005 when he joined Kenyatta University. However, his path was fraught with challenges. As a devoted Seventh-day Adventist (SDA), he faced a significant hurdle when exams were scheduled on Saturdays, the Sabbath—a day his faith prohibits engaging in such activities.
“I only completed four exams that weren’t on the Sabbath. Three units had exams on Sabbath, and one unit still went missing for reasons I can’t explain,” Nyagero revealed during an interview.
To resolve the conflict between his academic pursuits and his religious beliefs, Nyagero transferred to KU’s Ruiru campus and shifted to a regular program. However, financial challenges soon emerged as a new obstacle.
His sister, who had been financing his education, stopped paying his tuition fees, leaving Nyagero unable to sit for exams despite attending classes. The situation worsened in 2009 when a university strike led to stricter policies that barred students with outstanding fees from taking exams.
Unwilling to abandon his dream, Nyagero took on various odd jobs to raise funds. Though his academic journey was repeatedly delayed, he remained steadfast, holding on to hope and faith.
After years of perseverance, his efforts bore fruit, and in December 2023, Nyagero finally graduated. His graduation day was a quiet yet deeply personal celebration. He attended the ceremony for just an hour before traveling to Nairobi to manage his bookshop business. Later, he watched the remainder of the event online.
Reflecting on his long and arduous journey, Nyagero expressed gratitude: “Despite the struggle, I thank God for everything.”
Nyagero’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and determination in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. It reminds us that, with persistence, even the longest and most challenging journeys can lead to success.
