By Erewunmi Peace

Kemi Badenoch, Leader of the Opposition in the UK, is facing growing scrutiny after a former Stanford University admissions officer refuted her long-standing claim of receiving an early admission and scholarship offer at the age of 16.

Badenoch, a rising figure in British politics, has repeatedly stated in interviews and campaign materials that she was offered a place at Stanford University’s medical program as a teenager. However, fresh reports from The Guardian and other credible outlets reveal that Stanford denies making such an offer.

According to Jon Reider, a former admissions officer at Stanford who handled international applicants and bursaries at the time, the university does not run a “pre-medical school” for undergraduates and would not have made such an offer. Reider further stated that he never admitted Badenoch or granted her financial aid.

“There’s no undergraduate medical program at Stanford, only graduate-level degrees. An offer like that would not have been possible,” Reider told The Guardian.

The revelation has sparked a political storm in the UK, as Badenoch has frequently cited the alleged offer to highlight her academic credentials and her parents’ sacrifices. Critics argue that this could raise questions about her honesty and transparency.

Why It Matters

This controversy comes at a critical time for Badenoch, who recently became the Leader of the Opposition. Political analysts believe the dispute could damage her credibility as she positions herself as a reform-driven alternative.

As the debate unfolds, Badenoch’s team has yet to issue an official statement addressing the growing concerns about her educational claims.