Kimani Ng'ang'a Maruge was born in Kenya around 1920, although his exact birth date is uncertain due to lack of official records.12 Growing up under British colonial rule, Maruge faced limited educational opportunities like many rural Africans of his time. He spent his youth fighting for Kenya's independence as part of the Mau Mau uprising in the 1950s, enduring long periods of detention and torture in camps.1 These experiences, while shaping his commitment to his country's freedom, also meant Maruge missed out on formal education during his early years. Despite these challenges, Maruge's determination to learn would eventually lead him to make history decades later.13

Kimani Maruge's desire to learn was ignited by the Kenyan government's introduction of free primary education in 2003. Despite living a full life as a farmer, Maruge had always felt the limitations of illiteracy and yearned for the opportunities that education could provide.2 When he heard about the free education initiative on the radio, Maruge saw it as a chance to fulfill his lifelong dream of learning to read and write.3 At 84 years old, he decided to enroll in primary school, demonstrating that the pursuit of knowledge has no age limit. Maruge's determination to learn, despite initial opposition from parents and officials, highlights the transformative power of education and the importance of lifelong learning.2

Kimani Maruge's decision to enroll in primary school at the age of 84 was met with both admiration and opposition. On January 12, 2004, Maruge joined Kapkenduiywo Primary School in Eldoret, Kenya, becoming the oldest person to start primary school.2 His enrollment was fiercely opposed by some parents and government officials, but Maruge's determination prevailed.4 Dressed in a school uniform and sitting alongside classmates young enough to be his great-grandchildren, Maruge's first day of school garnered significant local and international attention. His inspiring story highlighted the importance of education at any age and demonstrated that it's never too late to pursue knowledge and literacy.14

Kimani Maruge's determination and enthusiasm for learning quickly endeared him to his teachers and classmates. Despite initial skepticism, he made remarkable progress in his studies, particularly in reading and writing. Within two years of enrolling, Maruge was elected head boy of his school, a testament to his leadership and the respect he earned from his peers.1 His primary goal was to read the Bible and manage personal tasks requiring literacy, which he achieved with dedication.1 Maruge's inspiring journey garnered international attention, leading to an invitation to address the United Nations Millennium Development Summit in New York in 2005, where he spoke about the importance of free primary education.3 His story not only inspired many school dropouts in Kenya to return to education but also highlighted the value of lifelong learning on a global scale.15

Kimani Maruge's remarkable journey earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest person to start primary school.15 His story garnered widespread media attention, inspiring many school dropouts in Kenya to re-enroll and complete their education.1 Maruge's dedication to learning at an advanced age made him a global symbol of lifelong education. In recognition of his impact, he was invited to address the United Nations Millennium Development Summit in New York in 2005, advocating for the importance of free primary education.15 Maruge's legacy continues to inspire, with Google honoring him with a customized doodle on January 13, 2015, depicting his passion for education in old age.3 His life story was also immortalized in the 2011 biographical film "The First Grader," further spreading his inspirational message worldwide.14

Kimani Maruge continued his educational journey with unwavering dedication, using his platform to advocate for literacy programs and educational opportunities for the elderly. However, his later years were marked by challenges. Due to political unrest in Kenya, Maruge was forced to relocate to a home for the elderly, yet he remained committed to his studies despite these setbacks.1 Maruge passed away on August 14, 2009, at the age of 89, leaving behind a powerful legacy of lifelong learning. His inspiring story was immortalized in the 2010 biographical film "The First Grader," ensuring that his message of perseverance and the transformative power of education continues to inspire people worldwide.24 Despite his global fame during his lifetime, Maruge's family has unfortunately faced hardships and feelings of abandonment since his passing, highlighting the often fleeting nature of public attention and support.4