Mount Kenya University (MKU) Foundation has hosted a breakfast forum in a Nairobi hotel, centering on educational scholarships and funding.
Attended by key government and non-governmental stakeholders, the event aimed to strengthen partnerships for increased access to higher education, particularly for economically disadvantaged bright students.
Participants included prominent organizations such as the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), National Government Constituency Development Fund Board, Universities Fund, Equity Group Foundation, Plan International, and others.
The forum unfolded against the backdrop of the recently introduced Variable Scholarship and Loan Funding model for university students.
Geoffrey Monari, CEO of Universities Fund, highlighted the shift from the Differentiated Unit Cost model, where the government’s contribution to public universities was initially 80%, to the new Means Testing instrument.
This student-cantered model considers financial capabilities to pay fees, acknowledging economic circumstances and changing academic program costs.
Monari praised foundations like MKU for complementing government efforts.
Co-organized with the NGOs Coordination Board, the forum explored the potential establishment of an Association of grant makers and benefactors in Education.
This envisioned collective, inclusive voice would encompass government bodies, NGOs, private sector alliances, foundations, trusts, and individual benefactors.
The association aims to lobby for educational financing decisions and explore the creation of a joint scholarship fund.
Dr. Vincent Gaitho of KEPSA Education Sector Board proposed a revolving fund, urging beneficiaries to repay, ensuring sustainability for future generations.
Kevin Lubembe from Equity Group Foundation emphasized the need for increased information dissemination about available scholarships, especially in rural areas.
During the forum, Esther Akoth of Akothee Foundation donated KSh50,000 to MKU student Milly Nafula, who had received a full scholarship from MKU Foundation in 2022.
Nafula’s inspiring story, featured on Citizen TV, underscored the foundation’s commitment to equitable access to quality higher education. Grateful for the support, Nafula vowed to excel in her medical studies.
NGOs Board Executive Director Mutuma Nkanata commended education-focused NGOs for their crucial role in shaping the future by ensuring widespread access to education.
As discussions unfolded, the forum emphasized collaboration, transparency, and the collective responsibility of stakeholders in shaping the educational landscape for generations to come.
By James Wakahiu
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