Top Ten Bursary Opportunities In Kenya

Securing a bursary for your child's secondary education in Kenya can significantly alleviate financial burdens while ensuring access to quality education. Below is a curated list of top organizations offering high school scholarships, including their contact information, application processes, and pertinent deadlines:

1. Equity Group Foundation – Wings to Fly Program

The Wings to Fly program, initiated by the Equity Group Foundation, provides comprehensive secondary school scholarships to academically gifted yet economically disadvantaged students across Kenya. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, books, uniforms, and stipends. Applicants undergo a rigorous selection process, including academic performance assessments and household visits to verify financial need. Applications typically open in November, with deadlines in December to align with the academic calendar.

• • Website: equitygroupfoundation.com/wings-to-fly/
  • Telephone: +254 (020) 2744000
  • Email: info@equitygroupfoundation.com

2. KCB Foundation Scholarship Program

The KCB Foundation offers scholarships to bright students from underprivileged backgrounds, covering tuition fees, uniforms, and learning materials for their four-year secondary education. Notably, the top 50 performers from the high school program are eligible for university scholarships in public universities across Kenya. The application process involves submitting academic records and proof of financial need, followed by interviews. Applications usually open in October, with closing dates in December.

• • Website: kcbgroup.com/foundation
  • Telephone: +254 (020) 3270000
  • Email: kcbfoundation@kcbgroup.com

3. M-PESA Foundation Academy

The M-PESA Foundation Academy is a state-of-the-art, co-educational, and residential high school offering scholarships to academically talented students with leadership potential. The academy provides a platform for holistic learning, integrating technology and life skills. Applicants must be in their final year of primary school and demonstrate financial need. The selection process includes written assessments and interviews. Applications open in June and close in August.

3. • Website: mpesafoundationacademy.ac.ke
   • Telephone: +254 (0) 703 200 000
   • Email: info@mpesafoundationacademy.ac.ke
4. Co-operative Bank Foundation Scholarship

The Co-operative Bank Foundation provides scholarships to bright students from disadvantaged backgrounds, covering tuition fees and other necessities throughout their secondary education. Applicants are required to submit their academic records, a recommendation letter, and proof of financial need. The application period typically runs from October to December.

4. • Website: co-opbank.co.ke/foundation
   • Telephone: +254 (020) 2776000
   • Email: foundation@co-opbank.co.ke
5. Family Bank Foundation Scholarship

Family Bank Foundation offers scholarships to students who have excelled in their primary education but lack the financial means to proceed to secondary school. The scholarship covers tuition fees, uniforms, and learning materials. Applicants must provide academic transcripts and evidence of financial hardship. The application window is usually between November and January.

5. • Website: familybank.co.ke/foundation
   • Telephone: +254 (020) 3252000
   • Email: foundation@familybank.co.ke
6. KenGen Foundation Scholarship

KenGen Foundation awards scholarships to students from areas surrounding their operational sites, focusing on promoting education in these communities. The scholarship covers tuition fees and other school-related expenses. Applicants need to submit academic records and proof of residency in the targeted areas. Applications generally open in September and close in November.

6. • Website: kengenfoundation.co.ke
   • Telephone: +254 (020) 3666000
   • Email: foundation@kengen.co.ke
7. Jomo Kenyatta Foundation Scholarship

The Jomo Kenyatta Foundation offers scholarships to bright but needy students, ensuring they can pursue their secondary education without financial hindrance. The scholarship covers tuition fees, uniforms, and books. Applicants must provide academic records and evidence of financial need. The application period typically runs from October to December.

• • Website: jkf.co.ke/scholarships
  • Telephone: +254 (020) 556000
  • Email: info@jkf.co.ke

8. Elimu Scholarship Program

Funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Education, the Elimu Scholarship Program targets learners from vulnerable and marginalized communities. The scholarship covers tuition, boarding, and personal effects. Applicants must have completed their primary education and come from needy backgrounds. Applications usually open in December and close in January.

8. • Website: www.education.go.ke/elimu-scholarship 
   • Telephone: +254 (020) 3318581
   • Email: info@education.go.ke
9. Safaricom Foundation Scholarship

The Safaricom Foundation provides scholarships to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, focusing on regions with limited educational opportunities. The scholarship covers tuition fees, uniforms, and learning materials. Applicants are required to submit academic records and proof of financial need. The application window typically runs from November to January.

• • Website: safaricomfoundation.org
  • Telephone: +254 (020) 4272000

10. CDF Constituency Bursaries

The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) offers bursaries to students within various constituencies across Kenya. The bursary amounts and application processes vary by constituency, but generally, applicants must provide academic records and proof of financial need. Application periods are announced locally, often aligning with the start of the academic year.

Application Process Overview:

1. Eligibility Assessment: Review each scholarship's specific criteria, focusing on academic performance and financial need.
2. Document Preparation: Gather necessary documents, including academic transcripts, recommendation letters, proof of financial status, and identification documents.
3. Application Submission: Complete the application forms accurately and submit them along with the required documents within the specified timelines.
4. Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates may undergo interviews or assessments as part of the selection process.
5. Notification: Successful applicants are usually notified through official communication channels provided during application.

Closing Dates:

Application periods vary among programs, typically ranging from September to January. It is crucial to consult the respective organization's official website or contact their offices for precise dates and additional information.

By diligently following these guidelines and adhering to the specified timelines, you can enhance your child's chances of securing a scholarship for their secondary education in Kenya.