Scholarship That Restores Dignity and Keeps Learning Moving.

This term, Rise to Shine Education Foundation deepened its scholarship support to ensure that no learner remains at home because of unpaid fees. While thirty students had already been interviewed and placed in secondary schools, we identified an additional twenty who had not reported due to financial hardship. They were urgently supported and successfully resumed learning. For these families, the intervention was not just timely; it was lifesaving.

Our work did not end with fee payment. The foundation conducted follow-up school visits to monitor academic progress, emotional well-being, and overall adjustment. The results have been encouraging. All sponsored students returned safely after half-term. No fee concerns have been raised. No cases of indiscipline have been reported. The consistency of follow-up continues to build stability and trust between the students, schools, and their families.

Chelang’a’s story stands out as a powerful reminder of why this work matters. Raised by her mother, a small-scale farmer, she was at risk of missing school when finances fell short. Through Rise to Shine, she gained admission to Nakuru Girls, a school she once believed was out of reach. During our visit, she shared quietly,

“I used to see students from Nakuru Girls and wonder if I would ever wear that uniform. Now Iam here. I want to work hard so my mother can be proud.”

Her mother, when reached by phone, added,

“Farming is not predictable. Some seasons are good, some are not. When I thought my daughter would stay home, I felt helpless. This support has given her a future.”

Akinyi’s journey was equally emotional. She had remained at home while others reported to school. A neighbor helped escort her to school despite her lacking fees and essential supplies. When asked how she felt after settling in, she said,

“The first week was difficult because I had nothing. When the foundation cleared my fees and brought my shopping, I felt relieved.”

Beyond fees, the foundation is working to establish a library and computer lab at its office to support the new curriculum, particularly STEM pathways and other learning tracks. This space will allow students to access books, research materials, and digital tools during school holidays, ensuring their academic growth continues even when schools close. However, setting up these facilities requires additional resources such as bookshelves, textbooks, computers and internet

connectivity. We invite partners and well-wishers to join us in building this learning hub. With collective support, we can create a space where opportunity does not pause when the school term ends.