Uasin Gishu residents have reasons to smile as the son of their soil, Deputy President William Ruto graduates with a doctorate from the University of Nairobi. 

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After many years of toiling and burning the midnight oil, DP Ruto is set to graduate with a PhD in Plant Ecology, a course he enlisted for in August 2012. 

The much-anticipated graduation, which will change his title to Dr William Ruto, comes as a threefold festival as it harmonizes with his birthday and wedding commemoration. 

Born on December 21, 1966, Ruto has not had it easy to rise to his current position. 

The second in command has gone through ups and downs to ensure that he makes his life better. Ruto, who will be celebrating his 52nd birthday and at the same time 27 years of marriage to his better half Rachel Ruto, a graduate from the University of Nairobi, once sold chicken to make ends meet. His determination and hard work have seen him rise from grass to grace.

Two years prior, DP Ruto didn't make it to the graduation list after he neglected to meet the fundamental prerequisites. Today (Friday), in any case, he will be given the Doctorate title together with five others, whose names were endorsed by the Nairobi University Senate, led by the Vice Chancellor Prof Peter Mbithi. 

The award could propel his presidential ambition come 2022 as he seeks to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta. He will be the first President to hold a PhD if he ascends to power.

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