Top students in the Rift want to be doctors

Allan Kipkorir of Kapsabet Boys celebrates with family members after receiving KCSE at their Chebarus village Uasin Gishu County. [Peter Ochieng, Standard]

The top students in last year's Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination from the Rift Valley region want to pursue careers in medicine.

Allan Kipkorir Kemboi from Kapsabet Boys who got an A plain of 84 points said he had a passion for the medical field and wants to be among other doctors impacting the lives of many people in the country.

The 18-year-old would like to join the University of Nairobi to pursue a degree in medicine. His dream is to become a neurosurgeon and hopes to perfect his skill by furthering his studies at Harvard University in the USA.

"I cannot thank God enough for helping me to excel in my examination. I am happy that now I can pursue my dream career in medicine," said Kemboi.

Kemboi said the news that he emerged top nationally did not come as a surprise as he had prepared well for the exam.

He said he dedicated a lot of time to revising the topics and subjects he had challenges in.

"My efforts were not in vain. I sacrificed all my time to study. There were days I could sleep at 2 am and wake up at 4 am," added Kemboi.

Meanwhile, Collins Kiprotich from St Patrick's Iten who scored an A of 82 points also wants to be a medical doctor.

"Medical field is where I want to be. I am looking forward to meeting brilliant brains in the field of medicine, with whom we can work together, to boost healthcare in Kenya, and across the globe," said Kiprotich.

Thomas Mageto who scored an A (83 points), and is also a St Patrick's Iten student is looking forward to becoming a neurosurgeon.

He attributed the excellent results to encouragement from his grandfather who paid his school fees on time, his parents who encouraged him, and teachers who dedicated their time to ensure he improved in his weaker subjects.

"I am a proud grandfather. I celebrate my grandson who is disciplined and a strong Christian. We are thankful to God because he rewarded him with good grades," said Mageto's grandfather, David Mosoti, a businessman in Nyamira.

Allan Kigen, of Samoei Boys in Nandi County, would like to be a dentist.

Kigen added that his struggle with dental cavities is the reason he wants to become a dentist.

"My passion is in medicine. I have dreamt of becoming a doctor, since my childhood, and here comes the chance to grow my wings. I want to ensure patients get treatment on time so that they can live a quality life," said Kigen.

Samuel Mungai Evans, also from St Patrick's Iten, is yearning to be among the leading surgeons in Kenya.

Mungai got an A (84 points), a score he attributed to dedication, discipline, support from his teachers and parents, and God's favour.

"I want to be a surgeon. This is my dream career that will also enable me to give back to society. It is only through good health that people can live happily.

Medicine is also a well-paying career, I am looking forward to having a good life," said Mungai.