The story of Isaiah Kiplangat Chan, a 14-year-old boy who defied adversity to excel in the 2023 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), is a testament to resilience, hope, and the unyielding spirit of determination.
Chan, who scored Aggregate 8 in the PLE from Joshua Cheptegei Junior School in Kapchorwa, achieved distinction in all four subjects.
Raised by his Ugandan mother, Joyce Fatuma Chebet, after his Chinese father left Uganda when she was pregnant, Chan’s journey has been marked by both hardship and hope.
Ms Chebet, though proud, acknowledges the immense challenges Isaiah has faced.
“I’m very happy for my son to see that he has passed, yet he had eye problems. It is God’s mercy because I almost gave up, thinking his sight would affect him while doing exams,” she said.
Chan’s health condition, myopia, impaired his vision significantly, making it difficult for him to read and concentrate.
However, after being featured on NBS TV in November, Chan's story touched the hearts of many, and well-wishers stepped in to provide him with glasses, improving his focus and study capabilities.
Despite his remarkable academic success, Isaiah’s ambition remains high. He had hoped to score even better, reflecting his relentless pursuit of excellence.
"I expected to score 4," he said, showing an unshaken drive to achieve more.
Chan’s longing to meet his father, whom he has never known, adds a poignant layer to his story.
“Sometimes, I feel empty when I see my friends with their fathers,” he confessed, but his faith remains strong.
"I have faith that good things are ahead, and I hope to make my mother and my father—wherever he is—proud."
While his future in secondary school remains uncertain due to financial constraints, Chan’s story is far from over.
His mother's unwavering sacrifices, coupled with community support, have made his educational journey possible.
Ms Chebet’s gratitude is evident as she reflects on the help they’ve received: “After many struggles with school dues, I didn’t think we’d get here. But God has been faithful.”