Maasai Mara University in Narok County has issued a public warning after fraudsters began circulating fake messages claiming that students have been “nominated for a World Bank scholarship,” a move the institution says is aimed at deceiving learners into sending money and sensitive personal information.
In a notice shared by university’s social media website, the administration cautioned students, pre-freshers and members of the public against engaging with the fraudulent messages.
The university revealed that scammers are using forged documents and misusing both the Maasai Mara University and World Bank logos to make the offers appear authentic.
According to the advisory, the fake messages direct recipients to click suspicious links where they are asked to pay so-called processing fees or submit bank details to access alleged scholarship funds.
The university officials stressed that these claims are entirely false and form part of a common scam designed to steal money and personal data.
“Fake World Bank Scholarship Alert! Beware of such fraudulent schemes targeting our students,” the university stated, urging anyone who receives the messages to ignore them and avoid clicking on any links provided.
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The university’s warning comes amid growing concern over the rise of online fraud, particularly schemes that impersonate trusted institutions to exploit students and their families.
The World Bank itself has repeatedly cautioned the public that it does not offer scholarships or loans directly to individuals and never asks for upfront fees, bank details or personal financial information.
Globally, similar scams have been reported, with fraudsters creating convincing emails, social media posts and fake websites that closely resemble legitimate institutional platforms.
In Kenya, students have previously fallen victim to fake bursary and scholarship syndicates, prompting repeated advisories from government agencies and education authorities.
Maasai Mara University has advised students to treat unsolicited scholarship offers with suspicion, especially those they did not apply for and to verify all funding opportunities through official university channels such as the bursary office or the institution’s verified website.
The administration also encouraged victims or those who encounter suspicious messages to report the matter to campus security or relevant law enforcement agencies.
The university reiterated its commitment to protecting students from exploitation and urged the campus community to remain vigilant as fraudsters continue to adapt their tactics in the digital space.
By Philip Koech
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