For many young people, access to higher education is a dream. For Stellah Chelimo Kakuko, it is a dream that has been realized through determination, resilience, and the support of those who believed in her potential.
A student from the Pokot community, Stellah has grown up in an environment where opportunities for girls to pursue higher education and leadership are often limited. Despite these challenges, she remained focused on her goals, driven by a desire to transform her life and contribute positively to her community.
"My journey has been shaped by perseverance, humility, and the belief that education can change lives," she says.
Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at the University of Eldoret, Stellah is passionate about sustainable agriculture and food security. She hopes to use the knowledge and skills she acquires at the university to contribute to agricultural development and improve livelihoods within her community and beyond.
Her path to university, however, was not without obstacles.
After attaining a B- grade in the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, Stellah faced uncertainty about her future due to financial constraints at home. Coming from a family where her father is a small-scale farmer and her mother has no formal source of income, the prospect of joining university seemed increasingly difficult.
Everything changed in April 2025 when she received a call from Mrs. Gladys Kipturu, the Principal of Churo Girls High School. Upon learning about Stellah's academic performance, Mrs. Kipturu connected her to an opportunity that would ultimately change the course of her life.
Stellah applied for the TAGDev 2.0 Scholarship Programme under RUFORUM. Following a successful application, a home validation exercise was conducted at her family home in Komol Village, Churo-Amaya Ward, Tiaty Constituency, Baringo County.
The visit not only verified her eligibility for the scholarship but also renewed her hope for the future.
“After submitting my application, Dr. Daniel Chebet visited our home in Churo-Amaya Ward, Tiaty Constituency, Baringo County, to conduct the home validation exercise. The visit gave me hope and confidence that my dream of joining university was within reach. About a month later, the final shortlist was released, and I was overjoyed to learn that I had been awarded the TAGDev 2.0 scholarship. It was a life-changing moment for me and my family.” Stellah said.
Her perseverance paid off when she was successfully awarded the TAGDev 2.0 scholarship, bringing immense joy to her family and opening the door to higher education.
Since joining the University of Eldoret, Stellah has embraced every opportunity for personal growth, leadership development, and academic excellence. The scholarship programme has provided more than financial support; it has equipped her with mentorship, leadership training, and life skills, especially the 21st Century skills training that happen every saturday that continue to shape her journey.
Her passion for leadership quickly became evident.
Motivated by a desire to serve others, Stellah participated in the university's student leadership elections and was successfully elected as a Congress Delegate representing the School of Agriculture. In this role, she advocates for students' interests while promoting unity, inclusivity, and responsible leadership.
To her, leadership is not about authority but service.
"I believe leadership is about integrity, fairness, and creating opportunities for others. It is a responsibility to serve and make a positive difference," she says.
As she continues her academic journey, Stellah remains committed to empowering others, particularly young girls who may face barriers similar to those she encountered. She hopes her story will inspire them to pursue their dreams with courage and determination.
Looking to the future, Stellah aspires to take on greater leadership responsibilities and eventually contribute to national development through public service and policymaking.
Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination, support, and opportunity, young people can overcome adversity and become catalysts for change in their communities and beyond.
