Emmanuel Njenga has emerged as one of the standout performers in the 2018 KCPE after scoring 445 marks, a result that came nearly as a personal triumph as it did an academic one. The results were reported on 20 November 2018, and the Thika pupil’s story drew attention because of the difficult start to life he overcame.
The 14-year-old, who studies at Stepping Stones preparatory school in Makongeni, Thika, was born three months before his due date and weighed 1.8kg. His family said the premature birth left them fearing for his survival, but he went on to grow into a strong learner who could keep up with other pupils.
Njenga said he hopes to join Alliance High School and later train as a neurosurgeon. He credited his performance to discipline and concentration, saying, “There is no secret to performance. The only factor is focus and discipline,” he said.
His father, Michael Wathiomo, recalled how serious the early medical concerns were and said the family had nearly given up hope. He said, “We fed him milk using syringes. He gained 10 kilograms in a span of two months.” Wathiomo added that Njenga “has been a survivor and has fought his way to where he is now,” describing the outcome as an act of God.
Njenga joined Stepping Stones preparatory school at three and a half years old. His father said that despite his small size and low weight, he was able to do everything the other pupils did.
His mother, Lydiah Wathiomo, said raising him had not been easy and recalled being mocked for giving birth to what some people called an “abnormal child.” She said the KCPE result was overwhelming and thanked God for the success.
At the same school, 13-year-old Grace Mwende Kamau also posted a strong result with 438 marks. She said she wants to become a doctor.
Chris Irungu, one of the directors at Stepping Stones preparatory school, praised the teachers and pupils for the improved performance. He said more than 40 of the 100 registered candidates scored 400 marks and above, and the school attributed the results to discipline, hard work, and responsible parenting.
