In the heart of Eldoret, hundreds of affected students and their families marched in a peaceful procession. They demanded urgent action to salvage their shattered academic dreams after falling victim to the Finland and Canada scholarship scam.
Teary-eyed students carried placards and chanted through the streets, creating a powerful display of unity and resilience. They didn’t just protest—they called the nation to action.
Students Face Broken Promises and Lost Opportunities
In 2022, over 210 students from Uasin Gishu County prepared to study abroad in Finland and Canada under a county-sponsored program. They trusted the system and invested everything.
- Families sold property.
- Parents secured loans.
- Students prepared to board planes.
The county failed them. Alleged mismanagement and a fraudulent program blocked their travel. The consequences hit hard—students faced depression, trauma, and crumbling family stability.
Kemboi and Kemei Mobilize Eldoret for Action
Noah Kemboi and Hosea Kemei took charge. They organized the procession and launched a mobile fundraising playbill to rally financial support from across the country.
“We launched this fundraiser today to help our children study abroad as planned,” said Kemboi.
They called on Kenyans to contribute towards raising the Ksh. 210 million is required to fund the students’ academic journeys.
Victims Directly Appeal to President Ruto
The victims reached out to President William Ruto, their last hope for intervention.
“Mr. President, you are our father and leader. Please rescue us,” Kemboi pleaded.
They reminded him of past promises, including those discussed during the Finnish President’s recent visit to Kenya, which have yet to bear fruit.
Students Speak Out About Pain and Setbacks
Velory, one of the victims, shared her experience. She described how the prolonged delays devastated her mental health and academic plans.
“We had dreams. Now, we only carry pain and uncertainty,” she said.
For her and many others, the loss goes beyond education—it stole time, peace of mind, and future careers.
Scandal Devastates Families in Eldoret
This crisis devastated entire families:
- Fathers drained their savings.
- Mothers sold ancestral land.
- Siblings abandoned their personal dreams to support the victims.
Many now struggle financially. Some fell below the poverty line because they trusted a failed system.
Community Steps In to Support Victims
The procession marked the beginning of a larger movement. Eldoret residents now plan a major fundraiser next week. Organizers called on:
- Local businesses
- Religious institutions
- Community leaders
- Politicians
- General well-wishers
They urged Kenyans to donate, even as little as Ksh. 100, through the official playbill.
“Your Ksh. 100 could change a life,” said Kemei.
Residents Demand Leadership and Accountability
Residents now question their leaders’ silence. They want clear answers about how a county-sponsored program collapsed without checks or responsibility.
Victims demand:
- Transparency from county officials
- A fixed timeline for restitution
- A public apology and full justice
They believe the scandal didn’t just steal education—it stole Eldoret’s trust and dignity.
Victims Call on National Leaders to Intervene
The affected students also reached out to:
- Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua
- Interior CS Kithure Kindiki
- Opposition leader Raila Odinga
They asked these national figures to push for swift and just resolution.
Students Refuse to Give Up on Their Future
Despite the betrayal, the students haven’t lost hope. They still aim to pursue their studies abroad, build their careers, and serve Kenya.
Their fight reminds us:
- Education is a right
- Leadership must remain accountable
- The youth never forget broken promises
How You Can Help the Victims
Every Kenyan can help restore these dreams. Here’s how:
- Donate to the official playbill.
- Share their story on social media.
- Attend the upcoming Eldoret fundraiser.
- Speak up by contacting your local leaders.
Your small act of kindness can change someone’s future.
Conclusion: Eldoret Demands Action Now
The Finland and Canada scholarship scam wrecked lives, but Eldoret refuses to stay silent. The students, their families, and the broader community now rise together—demanding action, justice, and the chance to dream again.
Eldoret has spoken. The time for silence is over.
