Nairobi, January 26- From rural villages to informal settlements, 1,000 bright but vulnerable students across Kenya have been given a chance to pursue secondary education through the KCB Foundation Scholars Programme.
Among the beneficiaries is 15-year-old Valentine Kemboi from Uasin Gishu County, whose education was disrupted after she became paralysed in 2019. Despite attending school only a few days a week, she scored 52 out of 72 in the 2025 Kenya Junior School Education Assessment. Also selected is Grace Akinyi from Kisumu’s Nyalenda informal settlement, raised by her disabled grandmother and often attending school without food, who scored 61 marks. Stephen Mbuya from Kayole, Nairobi, who lives with his mother and siblings in a single room, also earned a place after scoring 54 marks.
The three are part of the 2026 cohort of KCB scholars, who will receive full secondary school scholarships and continued support through university. The programme covers school fees, transport, shopping, pocket money and psychosocial support, ensuring students can focus fully on their education.
Speaking during the official flag-off, KCB Foundation Director Mendi Njonjo said the programme targets students who have traditionally been excluded due to poverty, disability or harmful cultural practices. Of the 1,000 slots, 120 were reserved for learners from niche groups, including teen mothers and persons living with disabilities.
The selection process involves nationwide interviews and home visits to verify need, with KCB staff playing a key role both in vetting and mentoring the students. Since its inception, the programme has supported over 6,800 learners, with a reported high completion rate through secondary school.
This year’s cohort also includes 75 student-athletes, expanding the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing both academic and sporting talent among underprivileged youth.
