Mandera student makes history by scoring the first A

Mandera, Kenya: For the first time in the history of Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), a candidate from the county scored an A.

Ibrahim Abdi Ali garnered 81 points after overcoming numerous challenges, including dropping out of Sheikh Ali Secondary School in Form Two due to lack of fees.

The Principal Ibrahim Hassan later allowed Ali to continue with his education at the school for free.

"My success is the fruit of hard work and strong determination to succeed. I persevered through all the hardships during my school life but thank God, I made it," he said.

The second born in a family of 13 has brought pride to Rhamu sub-county, which in the recent past has experienced spasmodic inter-clan clashes, insecurity, and drought.

Ali said there were moments when he felt like giving up but his teachers encouraged him to work hard.

He challenged current KCSE candidates in the school to work hard and maintain harmony for the good of the region.

COUNTY EFFORT

Governor Ali Roba lauded the unprecedented performance by both individuals and schools.

Mr Roba attributed the academic improvement in the region to his government's concerted effort to uplift education standards.

"Even though education is not devolved, we are doing everything we can to ensure high standards in both primary and secondary schools," he said.

Mandera Secondary School led with 10 A-minus, 15 B-plus, 16 B-plain and 37 B-minus.