By Betty Luke
More than 90 bright learners from needy families in Isiolo have benefited from Equity Group’s Wings to Fly scholarship and the Elimu Scholarship funded by the World Bank and the Ministry of Education.
The learners were selected from more than 600 applications received from the entire county joining more than 10, 000 students who qualified for the program from other parts of the country.
A total of 23 scholars were picked under the Wings to Fly program that supports needy students who score 350 marks and above in their Kenya Certificate of Primary Education, while 75 learners qualified for the Elimu Scholarship Program that targets those who score 280 marks and above.
Among the Wings to Fly Scholarship beneficiaries was Enock Doctor who scored 360 marks at Ngaremara Primary and who narrated how challenging it was for him due to his poor background.
“I am from a family of three and we entirely rely on our mother who has no reliable job. It is a relief for me as my dream has finally come true,” said Doctor.
Equity Bank Isiolo branch manager Mr Huka Wario said the financial institution was committed to supporting needy learners and appealed to other well-wishers to support the more than 500 learners who were not shortlisted for the sponsorship.
“A lot is expected from you. I appeal to all of you to put in a lot of hard work in your studies to achieve your dreams,” he told the beneficiaries during the commissioning exercise at Isiolo Boys High School on July 23, 2021.
Some of the Equity Group’s Wings to Fly Scholarship beneficiaries in Isiolo. BETTY LUKE/PRESS POINT
Assistant County Commissioner Lukas Mwange said some of those locked out did not promptly submit all the required documents blaming parents and caregivers for the woes.
“Some of the orphaned learners did not produce documents indicating the death of both or either of the parents locking them out of the opportunity,” said Mr Mwange.
Isiolo County Secretary Dr Ahmed Galgalo called on other financial institutions to follow suit to ensure needy students conveniently pursue their education.
“Education is the game changer and equalizer. If we all join hands in helping our children access education, we will ensure they become responsible citizens and future leaders,” Dr Galgalo said.
