In a devastating turn of events, the Kapsongoro village in Chepsangor, Nandi County, has been gripped by the tragic suicide of a young graduate who, after two years of unemployment, took his own life. Michael Kibet, an accomplished First Class honours graduate in ICT and Telecommunication from JKUAT, had been relentlessly searching for a job to no avail.
Kibet, just 26 years old, had high hopes for a successful career after completing his studies in 2021. However, as time passed without any positive outcome, the weight of his struggles grew unbearable, ultimately leading him to end his own life. The incident occurred at his brother’s compound in Lessos, where he hanged himself in a heart-wrenching act of frustration.
Area Chief David Rugut, deeply saddened by the loss, described Kibet as a diligent and disciplined young man, greatly admired in the Chepsangor location.
Rugut said, “We are really saddened by the loss of Michael. He was a hardworking and disciplined boy in our location. He ended his life out of frustration, according to his brother.”
Kibet’s academic achievements and unwavering determination made his tragic demise all the more shocking to the local community. Having graduated with outstanding results from Meteitei Boys High School in Tinderet Nandi and then excelling at Jomo Kenyatta University, Kibet was regarded as a shining example of success.
Chief Rugut noted, “The locals were really shocked by his demise. Many didn’t believe, as he has been a very humble boy and very responsible.”
Living with his mother, a retired nurse and single mother who had diligently supported her children’s education after the death of her husband, Kibet’s untimely death has left the family shattered.
It remains difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of Kibet’s tragedy, as he had received a solid educational foundation and support from his parents. Chief Rugut expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “It is really sad losing such a vibrant young man. It is really difficult to tell what could be the major contributor to Kibet’s death.”
As funeral preparations continue, the deceased’s body has been transferred to the Samaritan Funeral Home in Kapsabet, where Kibet will be laid to rest on Friday, June 9, 2023.
Read also: What has Led to the High Rate of Unemployment?
This heart-wrenching incident sheds light on the rising trend of suicide cases in Kenya, with stress and depression being identified as significant factors. While Kenya’s overall unemployment rate has seen a decline, standing at 4.9 percent in the last quarter of 2022, the harsh reality of the job market continues to plague many promising graduates.
As the nation mourns the loss of Michael Kibet, his tragic story serves as a stark reminder of the unseen struggles faced by countless talented individuals in their pursuit of employment and a better future.
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