Elvis Ndungu Mbuthia, the 18-year-old student from Mangu High School, has become a beacon of academic excellence after scoring a perfect A of 84 in the 2024 KCSE exams. Despite his impressive achievement, Elvis has set his sights on studying abroad, citing the numerous opportunities offered by universities in the United States.
In an interview at the Nation Centre in Nairobi on January 9, 2025, Elvis shared that his decision to pursue education overseas is driven by the promise of a more expansive and diverse academic environment. He believes that US-based universities offer unparalleled opportunities for growth, such as collaborative campus communities, extensive student aid through scholarships, and vast research facilities that would aid his academic development.
Elvis is seeking support from the Equity Bank Foundation to be considered for the prestigious Equity Leaders Programme, which he hopes will help him achieve his dreams of studying abroad. The program is known for helping outstanding students access higher education opportunities both locally and internationally.
While many would assume that a perfect score would guarantee success at top Kenyan universities, Elvis’ aspirations to study abroad highlight a growing trend among top students seeking global exposure. He believes that gaining international education will broaden his horizons and provide him with a competitive edge in his future career.
His decision also comes at a time when there is increasing awareness of the global academic opportunities available to Kenyan students. With scholarships and student aid becoming more accessible, many top-performing students like Elvis are opting to pursue their studies outside the country.
Elvis’ story serves as an inspiration to many young Kenyans, showing that excellence in academics can open doors to a world of opportunities. His determination to study abroad is a testament to the growing ambition among the youth to explore new frontiers and make a mark on the global stage.
By Nation