Eliud Kipchoge to be awarded Doctorate Degree – Kenyans’ hysterical reactions

Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge (white jersey) celebrates after busting the mythical two-hour barrier for the marathon on October 12, 2019, in Vienna [Courtesy]

World marathon record-holder Eliud Kipchoge on Friday, December 6 will be awarded a Doctorate Degree in Science by Laikipia University.

The University on Wednesday published an advert on The Standard newspaper (Page 4), confirming Kipchoge will receive his award, Honoris Causa, at the Main Campus’ Graduation Square.

“It’s the first time we are awarding a top sports personality an honorary degree. As a university, our niche areas are sports science and management. We want to become the center of excellence in sport and arts as we move into the new curriculum. That’s why we settled on Eliud,” said Professor Wanjiku Chiuri, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor- Academics Research and Student affairs.

University Advert:

“Pursuant to Laikipia University Charter, 2013 Section III, (21) (4) (K) on the conferment of Honorary Degrees and upon recommendation of the University Senate and approval thereof by the Laikipia University Council, the University has the pleasure to present Mr. Eliud Kipchoge to Kenyans and the International Community for the award of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) during the 7^th Graduation Ceremony to be held on Friday, 6 December, 2019 at the Graduation Square, Main Campus,” read part of the message. The University Senate in making this award noted that Eliud has made tremendous contributions in the realm of sports. The Senate specifically recognises his most recent achievement of becoming the first human in history to run a sub-two hour marathon. In a remarkable feat of endurance, Eliud delivered his ‘moon-landing’ moment by crossing the finish line in a mind-blowing time of 1:59:40 in Vienna, as he delivered on his pledge to prove that “No Human Is Limited”. Further, Eliud has been crowned Male Athlete of The Year for two consecutive years (2018 & 2019)”.

Game Yetu sampled some reactions from social media:

@EliudKipchoge hi Eliud can I be your friend please I like you so much

— Motari Samuel (@MotariSamuel5) November 27, 2019

I am convinced there's no video of Eliud Kipchoge not smiling. — Octo-Pizza ???? (@MUR4NG1R1) November 27, 2019