Baringo’s top Grade 10 student turns to fishing after fees lock him out of senior school

A bright student from Baringo County is staring at an uncertain future after failing to join Grade 10 due to lack of school fees, despite posting impressive results in last year’s the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA).

Zephaniah Lekae, who scored 52 points in the national examination, is yet to report to Kipyosit Senior School in Bomet County, where he had secured admission.

His education journey has been disrupted by circumstances beyond his control. Raised by a single mother, Zephaniah and his family were forced to flee their home in Rugus following persistent banditry attacks. They relocated to Kokwo Island in Lake Baringo, seeking safety.

Before displacement, Zephaniah was a pupil at Kiserian Primary School, where teachers describe him as disciplined and academically gifted.

“I worked very hard because I wanted to change my family’s situation,” Zephaniah said in a soft voice as he cast his fishing net into the lake. “When I saw my results, I was happy and hopeful. But now I don’t know when I will join school.”

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With no steady income, the teenager has turned to fishing on Lake Baringo to help support his mother and siblings.

“I go to the lake early in the morning and sometimes in the evening,” he said. “The money we get is not much, but it helps us buy food.”

His mother, who survives on menial jobs around Kokwo Island, says the family’s financial strain has made it impossible to raise the required school fees and purchase uniforms.

“I had much hopes for Zephaniah,” she said, fighting back tears. “He has always been a bright child. I fear that if he stays at home longer, he may lose hope. I am appealing to our leaders and well-wishers to help my son go back to school.”

Her plea comes a month after Grade 10 students across the country reported for admission, even as the government maintained that all learners transitioning under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) should be enrolled unconditionally.

Education stakeholders and local leaders in Baringo have termed Lekae’s case as one of many emerging instances where learners reportedly face barriers to admission due to unpaid fees or lack of uniforms.

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“Cases like Zephaniah’s are unfortunate and should not happen,” said a local education officer who requested anonymity. “We urge well-wishers and relevant authorities to step in and ensure no child is left behind.”

Community members have now begun mobilising support to raise the necessary funds for Zephaniah’s fees, uniforms and basic school supplies.

As the sun sets over Lake Baringo, the young scholar remains hopeful.

“My dream is to become a professional and help my family and community,” he said. “I just want a chance to continue with my education.”