This archive report was first published on 11 May 2021.
On a live television broadcast on Monday, Education CS Prof George Magoha announced the 2020 KCSE results, with Simiyu Robinson Wanjala emerging as the top student.
Simiyu, who completed his secondary education at Murang'a High School, was too nervous to eat during the announcement, and initially thought it was a mistake when his name was mentioned.
"I was nervous and tried to avoid the TV as much as possible. We were having lunch with my family but I could not eat. When CS Magoha mentioned my name, I rushed to the TV to check if it was a mistake…I was elated and filled with tears of joy," Simiyu told Citizen TV.
Simiyu attributed his exemplary performance to God and hard work, despite facing challenges in accessing academic materials online during the Covid-19 pandemic.
"There were a lot of challenges, especially in Form Four. When corona came, I prayed to God and asked him to repay me for all the hard work I had put in," he said.
Simiyu's father, Mr Wanjala, described his son as focused and hardworking, while his mother expressed her expectation of Simiyu's success.
Simiyu is eyeing a career in medicine as a surgeon before later specialising in cancer treatment and management.
"My advice to everyone is to stick to their dream. Let no one tell them it is impossible. Continue working and pray to God," he said.
