Nehemiah Koech, who achieved an A- in the 2019 KCSE exams, faced significant challenges in pursuing his education, working numerous menial jobs to fund his tuition. However, his fortunes changed when philanthropist Irene Mureithi intervened.
Koech juggled roles such as a security guard for five years to gather funds. His situation improved dramatically when Mureithi, moved by his story which gained widespread media coverage in February 2023, took action. After locating Koech in Eldoret, she brought him to Nairobi and took on the responsibility of funding his studies at Masinde Muliro University in Kakamega, where he began his Bachelor of Nursing program in September.
Philanthropist Ndung’u Nyoro highlighted Koech’s journey in a Facebook post, underscoring his transition to university and his aspirations to become a nurse. Despite initially aiming for a career in cardiology and enrolling briefly at St Paul’s University for Computer Science, Koech faced setbacks when financial support faltered, leaving him disheartened.
Koech’s path to higher education began with a scholarship that enabled him to complete his secondary schooling at Baringo High School. Earning Ksh200 daily as a watchman and saving from digging septic tanks, he supported not only himself but also his three younger sisters.
Despite his efforts to secure assistance from various institutions and lawmakers, it wasn’t until his story aired on Citizen TV that his plight gained wider attention. Throughout these challenges, Koech maintained hope for a brighter future through education. Irene Mureithi’s intervention marked a turning point, providing him with the opportunity to pursue his dream of becoming a nurse.
