KERICHO — Forty students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in Kericho and Bomet counties have been awarded scholarships totaling Sh8.3 million to pursue technical education at local TVET (Technical Vocational Education Training) Institutes. The scholarships were presented during a ceremony at a hotel in Kericho, marking the launch of the inaugural TVET scholarship program by the Finlays Community Trust.
According to Kenya News Agency, Regional Deputy Director of TVET Kenya and chief guest at the event, the scholarship program is a vital component of the Trust's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the region. She praised the Finlays Community Trust for its ongoing efforts to support education and empower youth in Kericho and Bomet, stating that the Kenyan government would continue to work with stakeholders to ensure broad access to quality education and opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship among students.
Bishop Alfred Rotich, Chairperson of the Finlays Community Trust, highlighted that the Trust now supports students across all educational levels, with the new scholarships adding to the 586 secondary school students, 400 undergraduate students, and 23 graduate students already assisted in the two counties at a cost of Sh276.2 million. He noted that the program aims to not only improve educational access but also stimulate economic development, foster innovation, and build self-reliance among participants.
Sammy Kirui, Secretary of the Finlays Community Trust, outlined the selection process for the scholarships, which targeted students who achieved grades of D or D+ in their KCSE examinations. He explained that the scholarships would cover the entirety of the recipients' studies and that upon completion, each beneficiary would receive a financial starter pack to support self-employment initiatives, enabling them to utilize their newly acquired technical skills.
The event was also attended by Simeon Hutchinson, Managing Director of Brown's Plantations LTD. Additionally, the Finlays Community Trust has invested Sh305.6 million in educational infrastructure projects throughout Kericho and Bomet counties, enhancing learning environments with new classroom blocks, science labs, libraries, dormitories, and dining halls.