Second best candidates eye medicine career

Sharon Murega of Kathigiri Primary School in Meru. [Photo:Peter Muthomi|Standard]

Sharon Nkatha of Kathigiri Primary School in Meru County emerged the second best overall with 447 marks.

Accompanied by her parents Robert and Mary Murega, Nkatha yesterday joined teachers at the school for a lively jig to celebrate her impressive performance.

Nkatha, who hopes to join Alliance Girls High School, attributed her success to God, teachers and her fellow pupils, who she said were always willing to help.

"I will not say exams were easy because they were not. I studied hard throughout my time here because I come from a humble family and want to drive a nice car in future and help others," she said.

Nkatha added that she also owed her parents everything for supporting her.

Her father said at one point, the family was hard pressed to find the resources to keep their daughter in school.

Financial challenge

"We had a financial challenge but the head teacher was magnanimous and allowed her to stay in school with the rest. We thank him for that,” said Mr Murega.

Nkatha said her role model was famous neurosurgeon Ben Carson, who she is determined to emulate.

And in Nakuru County, the top girl wants to be a paediatrician.

Gathoni Macharia from St Peters Elite School in Gilgil could not hide her joy after receiving her KCPE results.

Macharia, 13, scored 447 marks out of a possible 500, a result she attributed to God, prayer, hard work and encouragement from her parents.

Macharia's dream is to be a medical doctor.

"I want to become a scientist and do research in medicine. I want to see everyone in the world live a healthy life," she said.

Her mother, Edith Wanjiku, described her as a disciplined girl who took instruction and was keen in academics.

Another pupil, Gideon Kiptoo of Kagaki Schools in Nakuru, scored 434 marks, which he attributed to hard work.

He is looking forward to joining Alliance High School and has his heart set on a career in law.