KCB Foundation has committed Sh100 million to support 300 students as the foundation flagged off its Annual University Scholarship Programme.
This investment will cover the full tuition fees for the students throughout their courses at Kenyan universities, colleges, and vocational institutions, as well as provide essential mentorship and psychosocial support.
The scholarship programme, launched in 2021, now supports a total of 888 students, with 10 per cent of the scholarships allocated to students with disabilities and 50 per cent reserved for girls.
The initiative targets vulnerable learners, including those affected by orphanhood, harmful cultural practices like FGM, and teenage motherhood, as well as those from economically disadvantaged regions.
Julius Bitok, the Basic Education Principal Secretary, highlighted the importance of public-private collaborations in bridging educational gaps.
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“We have made significant strides through initiatives such as the 100 per cent Transition Policy from primary to secondary school, the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which emphasizes skills development and holistic learning, and the continued support of the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)," Bitok stated.
"However, there is still room for public-private partnerships to bridge existing gaps and expand opportunities for all Kenyans, as we seek to drive our economy through a skilled workforce,” he said.
Paul Russo, KCB Group CEO, emphasised the role of the programme in providing opportunities for disadvantaged students.
“Access to university education remains a significant challenge for many Kenyans due to the cost of studies," Russo remarked.
"As such, we intentionally seek out vulnerable and marginalized learners at risk of dropping out of school completely for our program."
According to Russo, each of the students who join the KCB Scholars programme is guaranteed an opportunity to make a change in society.”
Russo further stated that the institution's commitment stems from the strong belief that it is every child’s right to access quality education.
"By prioritizing education as a strategy for economic emancipation, KCB is helping to address societal challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and marginalization of underprivileged groups," Russo added.
The scholarship programme also includes annual mentorship, helping students navigate their academic and professional development, preparing them for opportunities in their fields.
Through this initiative, KCB Foundation continues to invest in an inclusive, skilled workforce, driving Kenya’s socio-economic progress.
