This archive report was first published on 21 December 2019.
At 36, Florence Muia is a mother of seven, but she has just achieved a remarkable feat by scoring a C+ in the 2019 KCSE, 20 years after her KCPE. Her journey to success was not an easy one, but she credits her determination and hard work for her achievement.
Ms Muia's story began 20 years ago when she sat for her KCPE in 1999 and scored 483 marks out of a possible 700, topping her class. However, due to abject poverty in her region, she was unable to join secondary school.
Undeterred, Ms Muia decided to get married at the age of 18, but her thirst for education never faded. In 2016, she decided to give education another shot, enrolling at Nzulini Mixed Day Secondary School under the National Government Affirmative Action Fund scholarship.
Ms Muia's journey was not without its challenges. She had to juggle taking care of her large family, domestic chores, and her studies. She also faced ridicule and odd looks from villagers and fellow students due to her age difference.
Despite these challenges, Ms Muia remained focused and determined. She was appointed a school prefect in Form One and later became the school head girl by the time she was sitting for her KCSE.
Ms Muia's achievement has been an inspiration to her children, with her firstborn scoring 338 marks in KCPE this year. She thanked her husband for being supportive, despite discouragement from neighbours and friends.
Ms Muia hopes to pursue Law at the university, but is open to other worthwhile courses. She believes that education is the key to removing her family from poverty and improving their lifestyle.
Kitui Woman Rep Irene Kasalu praised Ms Muia for her resilience and determination, saying she was picked for the scholarship due to her stellar performance in KCPE and her desire to pursue education despite her age.
