The common thread binding all KEF students is one of extreme poverty and a deep thirst for knowledge. In some cases such poverty results from being orphaned by AIDS. There are 1.9 million AIDS orphans in Kenya alone. But poverty in Kenya may also result from unemployment, physical disability and in certain instances, traditional enactments of culture. For example, the burning desire to remain in school has lead some female KEF students to run away from their families in order to avoid being married off at the age of 13. Without the help of the KEF and dedicated sponsors, these girls would never have the opportunity to realize their full potential.
The KEF is driven by the idea that education is a universal human right. As a result, poverty, an inability to pay school fees, and a drive to learn are the primary criteria for acceptance. To remain enrolled, however, all KEF students are required to maintain good grades. Consultations with the teachers, as well as periodic performance reviews allow us to monitor each student’s progress and provide extra help to those who need it.
All KEF scholarship applications are reviewed by an application review committee in the United States. To learn more about who qualifies for a KEF scholarship, click here.
