A proud chapter in Elgeyo Marakwet’s education journey was written in Melbourne as the first 10 students under the Pepea Scholarship Program officially graduated from CIC Higher Education. The ceremony marked not just personal triumphs for the graduates, but also a defining moment for the county’s flagship initiative, which champions global academic access for bright students from underprivileged backgrounds.
Governor Wesley Rotich, who was in attendance, described the milestone as both emotional and deeply affirming.
“It was a proud moment watching the first 10 graduates at CIC Higher Education Melbourne,” he shared on his official Facebook page. “These young trailblazers have shown that the Pepea initiative demands commitment, discipline, and hard work. We wish them every success as they soar to new heights.”
The governor used the occasion to announce a significant expansion of the Pepea Program, unveiling new partnerships with four Australian institutions that will open doors for hundreds of future scholars.
Among the new agreements:
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Ironwood Institute will offer 50% scholarships to 20 students in Agribusiness.
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Everest Institute has committed 30% scholarships for 100 students.
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Torrens University is providing up to 200 slots with a 50% tuition scholarship.
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CIC Higher Education, already a key partner, has extended its collaboration, offering 150 additional slots for the September intake with 40% scholarships.
“These new partnerships are game changers,” said Governor Rotich. “They will give more young people from our county the opportunity to compete and excel on a global stage.”
Beyond academic affairs, the governor also engaged with the Elgeyo Marakwet and larger Kalenjin diaspora in Australia, meeting with community members in Kitwek, Kokwet, Taunet, and MCIV cities. The conversations, he noted, provided fresh insight into new areas for growth and collaboration.
“I got to understand where to tap for new opportunities,” Rotich remarked, highlighting the critical role the diaspora plays in shaping the county’s development future.
The Pepea Scholarship Program remains a cornerstone of the county’s long-term education strategy. By equipping talented youth from underserved backgrounds with international education, the initiative aims to cultivate a generation of leaders and innovators who will transform their communities—and the country at large.
