KAMPALA, UGANDA — The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) released the 2024 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) results today, January 23, 2025, bringing joy to students across the nation. Among those celebrating was young rapper Patrick Ssenyonjo, known to his fans as Fresh Kid.
A student at Kampala Parents School, Fresh Kid demonstrated impressive academic prowess, achieving a Division One score with a total of 11 aggregates.
His performance across subjects was strong, earning him 2 aggregates in English, 2 in Science, 3 in Social Studies, and an impressive 4 in Mathematics.
The young artist collected his results accompanied by his father, a constant source of support for both his musical endeavors and his education.
This achievement marks a significant milestone for Fresh Kid, balancing his thriving music career with academic success.
After rising to prominence as a musician at just seven years old, Fresh Kid began his academic journey six years ago on a scholarship at Kampala Parents School.
This followed a public discussion, prompted by then Youth and Children’s Affairs Minister Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, about the importance of balancing his music career with formal education.
Last November, teachers Mary Nakitende and Jessica Nakayenga praised Fresh Kid’s commitment to his studies, citing it as a key factor in his academic achievements.
“He was disciplined and focused… He’d say, ‘Teacher, I can’t get involved – I don’t want to lose my scholarship.’’ Nakitende said.
Fresh Kid’s rise to prominence began in 2018 at the age of 12, after his talent was discovered by his manager, Francis, during a performance of songs by renowned rapper Fik Fameica in his village. His popularity quickly grew, leading to a signing with De Texas Entertainment the following year and the release of several successful tracks.
However, 2019 also saw intervention from then Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, who raised concerns about Fresh Kid’s performance schedule conflicting with his education, citing Uganda’s labor laws restricting work for those under 18.
This led to Fresh Kid receiving a scholarship from Rajiv Ruparelia to attend Kampala Parents School, where he recently completed his primary education.
Last month, Ms. Nakiwala, now a presidential advisor, announced that Fresh Kid is being considered for a secondary school scholarship at Cambridge International School Kampala.
Here at Vivid Voice News, we congratulate Fresh Kid on this commendable accomplishment!
