Over 2,000 learners to benefit from Chepsaita Cross Country race

21 schools will also get sh1 million each for infrastructure development.

by BY MATHEWS NDANYI

Rift-valley24 September 2025 - 08:57

In Summary

Last year, 16 schools and 1,600 students benefited from the scholarships.
This year, the number has risen to 21 schools, each receiving Sh1 million, with 100 students per school expected to benefit.

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More than 2,000 learners from poor families are set to benefit from scholarships through an education support programme championed by President William Ruto’s aide, Farouk Kibet.

The funds will be raised during the Great Chepsaita Cross Country race, which enters its third edition on December 3.

Preparations are already underway, with headteachers from 21 schools meeting at the race venue in Turbo constituency to plan for the scholarships.

Under the theme Running for Education, the race has grown to international standards and is now rated Gold Level by World Athletics. Farouk, the race’s founder and patron, has used the proceeds from the event into education, talent development and community projects such as roads and electrification.

Last year, 16 schools and 1,600 students benefited from the scholarships. This year, the number has risen to 21 schools, each receiving Sh1 million, with 100 students per school expected to benefit.

“We have briefed the headteachers on the purpose of the Run for Education theme, which is a great idea and vision by our patron who values education,” said Local Organising Committee chairman Stephen Kimaiyo.

He said schools will help identify the most needy learners.

Principals from Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Kakamega counties praised Farouk for using the race to transform communities.

Chepterwai Girls High School principal Sylvia Koech said the programme has kept many learners in school.

“We are happy with the initiative because it has already changed lives. As we prepare for the third edition, we are committed to uplifting more disadvantaged students,” she said.

Chepsaita Secondary School has also been a major beneficiary of Farouk’s initiatives.

In partnership with the Mpesa Foundation, the school is getting a new administration block, laboratory and a girls’ dormitory.

Principal Julius Mibey said enrollment rose from 532 to 732 due to the support.

“Our performance and growth are tied to these efforts and as a community we are proud,” he said.

As the race approaches, its impact is already being felt: from classrooms filled with hopeful learners to communities energised by the promise of education.