Emmanuel Akedi from St Augustine Primary School Butula. [Photo/Busia County Government]A vulnerable boy from Ikonzo village in Butula overcame all odds to excel in this year's Kenya Certificate of Primary Education examination released by Education Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i on Tuesday.Emmanuel Akedi, 14, who spent much of time taking care of his blind father scored 403 marks from St Augustine Primary School. He also faced fees challenges. Akedi said his dream to join the Prestigious Lenana School to become an engineer might hit a snag since his father cannot afford fees. Akedi took third position. Emmanuel Wafula emerged the top student at the school with 410 marks and was followed by Yassin Kangu with 405 marks.“I thank God for enabling me attain these marks. It was pleasant surprise to score over 400 marks. When my father went blind I almost gave up hope in education considering that nobody was going to pay my fees, but I soldiered on through spiritual nourishment.“Sometimes I could stay away from school. However, the Augustine Board of management came in to my rescue,” he said, and appealed to well-wishers to help him join his dream school and fulfill his career. The school head Patrick Mulamba said they expected Akedi to score high marks since he had shown intent to overcome the hardship he was facing back at home by posting positive deviation in the continuous assessment tests. “He is a very steady boy who comes from a humble background. Despite his father losing eyesight he put his best foot forward to score highly. The boy deserves help to enable him join form one," he said.

Do you have a lead on a newsworthy story? Share news tips with us here at Hivisasa!

Top KCPE candidate in Busia County Sheilla AchiengMeanwhile, the top girl in the county, Sheila Achieng’ who scored 426 marks at Isegeretoto Academy in Teso North has attributed her success to hard work, discipline and respect for teachers.“I am very happy to have emerged top in the county. I can’t even believe but just to thank God,” said the partial orphan.