George Wajackoyah has stirred debate online after speaking about the value of his academic journey and the cost of obtaining his qualifications.
George Wajackoyah is a Kenyan lawyer, politician, academic, and former presidential candidate best known for leading the Roots Party of Kenya during the 2022 General Election. He gained national attention for his unconventional campaign promises and outspoken personality.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, the Roots Party leader said his education and knowledge could not be measured in monetary terms, even as he attempted to explain how much he had spent pursuing higher learning over the years. “My Brain Cannot Be Quantified.”
During the interview, Wajackoyah described the sacrifices he made in pursuit of his education, particularly while pursuing his PhD. “I cannot quantify my brain. These degrees cost me more than 2 billion,” he said.
He further explained that his doctoral studies took six and a half years, with three semesters per year, each costing KSh1.2 million.
The remarks quickly attracted reactions across social media platforms, with many Kenyans debating the actual cost of higher education abroad and whether intellectual value can truly be measured financially.
Wajackoyah has often spoken publicly about his educational background and difficult upbringing. Over the years, he has built an image around academic excellence, law, and activism.
A Long Academic Journey
The politician is widely known for holding multiple academic qualifications from institutions in Kenya and abroad. His credentials include studies in law, criminology, and governance.
According to profiles published during the 2022 General Election campaigns, Wajackoyah studied in countries including the United Kingdom and the United States. He has also previously stated that he worked various jobs while pursuing his education overseas.
His educational background became a major talking point during the 2022 presidential race, where he presented himself as an unconventional leader focused on radical economic reforms.
Public Reactions Online
The interview clip has since circulated widely online, attracting mixed reactions from Kenyans.
Some users praised Wajackoyah’s commitment to education and argued that investing in knowledge can open opportunities and transform lives. Others questioned the figures he mentioned, with some comparing the amount to tuition fees charged by international universities.
“Education is expensive, but knowledge is priceless,” one social media user commented.
Another section of users turned the discussion towards the broader cost of higher education and the financial burden faced by students both in Kenya and abroad.
