Boy who mulled over selling kidney to raise fees scores B

Isaiah Wanjala. [Obare Osinde, Standard]

Isaiah Wanjala defied the odds to post an impressive grade of B plain in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams.

Wanjala was among the top students at Chewoyet National Boys' High School in West Pokot county.

The student from Gidea village in Trans Nzoia county was featured in The Standard on January 16, 2020, saying he was willing to sell his kidney to pay school fees after he scored 394 marks in the 2019 Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examinations.

Wanjala's story captured the attention of a reader who offered him a scholarship for secondary education.

The student thanked The Standard for highlighting his predicament and saving his parents the burden of raising Sh50,000 in school fees.

Wanjala who wants to study medical engineering, promised to give back to society once he becomes successful.

He acknowledged the role played by his parents, The Standard and Radio Maisha in ensuring he completed secondary education.

"I stand here with a lot of confidence in my journey to realizing my dream. My aged parents were not in a position to raise my school fees, as well as provide the basic needs for my younger brothers and sister. I thank my parents and The Standard and Radio Maisha for highlighting my plight," said Wanjala.

When asked about the bold decision to donate his kidney to pay school fees, Wanjala said he was prepared to undergo the procedure if it meant securing his secondary and university education.

His parents, Rose Andisi and Fred Wanyonyi, expressed joy at their son's impressive performance. "As a family, we are happy," they said.