Twenty-one bright and needy students from Molo Constituency will benefit from this year’s Elimu scholarship under the Jomo Kenyatta Foundation (JKF), a program that provides opportunities for learners from humble backgrounds to pursue their dreams through education.
Speaking during the launch, JKF Representative Nicholus Esanja noted that although a large number of students applied for the scholarship, only 21 were selected based on merit and eligibility.
“We were only given 21 slots, yet we had over 280 applicants, which reflects the actual level of need in the community. We will share details of the unsuccessful applicants with other scholarship agencies to ensure they also get opportunities,” Esanja said.
Since its establishment, the Elimu scholarship has played a key role as an equalizer, giving vulnerable learners a chance to advance their education despite challenging circumstances.
“True education is the only equalizer, which is why our team conducted home visits to identify those who genuinely deserve the opportunity,” Esanja added.
The sentiments were echoed by NG-CDF Molo representative Jane Gachaji, who urged the scholarship recipients to make the most of the opportunity by focusing on their studies and avoiding activities that could hinder their O-level education, such as teenage pregnancies or school suspensions.
“You, the few chosen to benefit from the program, should remember your backgrounds and avoid bad influences that might lead to discontinuation from JKF,” Gachaji advised.
She also encouraged parents of learners who did not qualify for the scholarship to visit the CDF office to apply for bursaries, noting that they will be given priority.
According to the foundation’s survey, 89 percent of beneficiaries from Molo were orphans, while the remaining 11 percent were raised by single parents.
Students Julius Waweru and Nyambura Vidimbo, who benefited from the program, lauded the scholarship for restoring hope and enabling them to pursue their educational dreams despite severe financial challenges at home.
“I am grateful to be among the beneficiaries. This program has revived my hope. I now feel that my dreams are realistic, and I promise I won’t let anyone down,” said Waweru.
The initiative continues to serve as a critical support system for bright yet disadvantaged learners, empowering them to achieve academic success and contribute meaningfully to society.
By Absalom Namwalo
