Kilifi Woman Joins College 21 Years after Finishing High School: "Never Too Late

• Petronilla Maria Nzomo was over the moon after returning to school more than two decades later
• The mother of one shared the challenges that had delayed her pursuit of further education and skill development
• Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, the Kilifi woman revealed that her teenage daughter played a significant role in inspiring her return to school

A woman from Mariakani, Kilifi county, has embarked on an educational journey she had postponed for many years.

Petronilla Maria Nzomo returned to school to fulfill her long-standing dream of acquiring relevant skills in her field.

She noted that although it had always been her desire to go back to class, various circumstances had stood in the way of her destiny.

When did Petronilla finish high school?

The mother of one shared a Facebook post offering a glimpse into her educational journey before taking the bold step.

“I finished high school in 2004. Those who studied with me know I was a top student. I never proceeded to college, but I’ve been doing online courses. Recently, I felt there was a gap in my skillset that I needed to address.

I’ve been saying I’d go back to school every January, but I never did. This year, my daughter challenged me to join college, even if just for a short course. She would constantly ask, ‘Ushaanza college?’ 21 years after high school, I’m finally in class. I can’t describe the feeling, but sitting in a class with students half my age is something else,” she wrote.

When did Petronilla's daughter join boarding school?

Speaking further to TUKO.co.ke, Petronilla said her teenage daughter agreed to go to boarding school so that her mother could study.

Despite the plan, it took Petronilla two more years before she finally sat behind a desk to continue her education.

“She accepted to join boarding school so that I could go back to school. She joined boarding in Grade 7, but I kept postponing. Still, she kept asking me when I would return to school.

Now that she’s in Grade 9, I’ve finally gone back to class—and I’m coping well,” she said.

How does Petronilla balance school and motherhood?

Petronilla no longer has to stress about balancing motherhood and schoolwork, as her thoughtful daughter is now in boarding school.

In her post, Petronilla acknowledged the many challenges that can hinder someone from pursuing their career or education goals, but emphasized that it’s never too late to start.

“Today, I’m officially a college student. Life happened—I worked, I built, I sacrificed, I waited. But I never gave up on education.

To anyone feeling stuck: you can still chase your dreams. You can work, raise a family, run a business—and still go back to school. Your pace is valid. Your timing is yours. It’s never too late,” she encouraged netizens.

Kenyans inspired by Petronilla, applaud her

Kenyans praised her determination, applauding her for never giving up despite life’s many challenges and responsibilities.

Pascal Thoya:

"Bold move, congratulations! Utabidi you behave like a Gen Z though, mambo ya uzee wacha kwako🙂. Usije ukachapwa na kiatu."

Milkah Jowi:

"It’s never too late to go after what you want. I'm almost 35 and I just enrolled for my degree."

Kasichana Kengah:

"May your story be an inspiration to many. Hearty congratulations, dada."

Zubeda Yusuf:

"Congratulations, dear. You inspire me to go back too. I cleared in 2004 as well. I did my degree but have been meaning to further my studies for years.

God bless you and see you through the entire course."

Edu Boluma Jnr:

"Hey Pet, congratulations! I know it hasn’t been an easy ride—being a mother, working, and still having bills to pay. I celebrate you, mama. Keep winning. Your journey is an inspiration to many."

Kericho woman returns to school after 16 years

In another story, a woman from Kericho recounted returning to high school 16 years after sitting for her first KCSE.

Winnie Chebet Chebii got married immediately after high school, which marked the end of her education journey.

However, her supportive husband enrolled her back in school more than a decade later—and she did not disappoint.

Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, she opened up about the challenges she faced, especially as a 38-year-old mother of four.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.

Source: TUKO.co.ke