A Kenyan man who traveled to China expecting a fully funded scholarship says he was left stranded after learning the deal arranged by an agent did not exist.
A young Kenyan man’s dream of studying in China has turned into a painful lesson after he allegedly discovered that a scholarship promised by a local agency was not real.
Allan Kanyi says he spent months communicating with an education agent in Nairobi who claimed to offer fully funded scholarships for Kenyan students seeking opportunities abroad.
According to Kanyi, the package included tuition, accommodation, medical insurance, and a monthly stipend assurances that gave him confidence to commit.
Believing his future was secured, he paid a total of about KSh 600,000 in agency and processing fees. He was also advised to enroll in a six-month Chinese language course to meet university entry requirements, which he did in hopes of improving his chances.
In July 2025, Kanyi says he received what appeared to be an admission letter and paid an additional KSh 400,000 to confirm placement.
But trouble began when the time came to process his visa. Communication with the agent reportedly became inconsistent, raising early concerns.
Despite the uncertainty, Kanyi traveled to China expecting support on arrival. Instead, he says he struggled with language barriers and accommodation arrangements.
Over the following weeks, he allegedly learned from university officials that he was not listed under any scholarship program and still had outstanding tuition fees.
Attempts to reach the agent reportedly failed, leaving him without the promised backing. University staff informed him that financial aid would depend on passing a Chinese proficiency assessment something he says had not been clearly explained earlier.
The case has sparked conversations online about the risks of unverified overseas education agencies. Education experts advise students to confirm scholarship offers directly with institutions and government bodies before making large payments.
Kanyi’s experience is now serving as a cautionary tale for many young Kenyans eager to study abroad highlighting the importance of due diligence when chasing international opportunities.