Eight bright but needy 2023 KCPE candidates from Ndarugu and Kiganjo Wards in Gatundu South have received complete secondary school scholarships from Theta and Ndarugu Tea Factories.
The students, who scored 350 marks and above in their 2023 KCPE exams, will see their entire school fees paid by the factories.
Theta Tea Factory Chairman Charles Wanyoike said that the scholarship is designed to help bright but financially challenged students to continue their education; and is also a way of giving back to smallholder tea farmers.
He noted that among the beneficiaries are students who are total orphans and whose guardians are registered tea farmers.
Speaking at the factory during issuance of the cheques, Wanyoike revealed that the scholarship has been around for a while and past beneficiaries are currently pursuing various courses in universities across the country.
“This is an initiative that has been very key in eradicating illiteracy in our community and helping students to continue their education uninterrupted,” he said.
The students, led by Naomi Njeri and Nickson Mwaura, expressed gratitude to the factories’ management for the kind gesture which will enable them to study and pursue their dreams.
“I come from a pitiable family and were it not for these factories, I would have remained home without education. Given this opportunity, I will now do my best to pursue my goals in life,” said Mwaura.
Their guardians urged them to dedicate and commit themselves to their studies and avoid bad company.
They singled out increased cases of drug abuse and recruitment into the LGBTQ movement which have seen many drop out of school.
“We have advised our children to concentrate on their studies. Opportunities come once in life and a ruined opportunity is irreversible,” Miriam Wanjiru Kamau, a guardian from Munyuini village said.
By Kamau Njoroge
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