Maruge holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest person across the globe to start primary school at the age of 84/COURTESY
Maruge holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest person across the globe to start primary school at the age of 84.
“Kimani Maruge was an extraordinary Kenyan whose passion for education throughout his life, shines as a beacon worldwide on the importance of lifelong learning,” says Google Communications Manager for East and Francophone Africa Dorothy Ooko.
Maruge, who believed he was born in 1920, joined Kapkenduiywo Primary School in Eldoret January 12, 2004. He later died from stomach cancer in August 14, 2009.
His renewed interest in education was as a result of the government’s decision to provide free primary education.
The doodle not only serves as a reminder about the importance of education for children, but also for adults for whom it is never too late to learn something new.
Doodles are used to celebrate the lives of famous scientists, artists, and pioneers throughout history and “Google is thrilled to feature a Kenyan whose life stood for such an important cause.”
