14 Turkana students granted full high school scholarships

Fourteen students in Turkana County, who recently completed their KCPE exams, will pursue their secondary education thanks to full scholarships from two banks.

The Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) will sponsor 12 and the National Bank of Kenya (NBK) two, following the announcement at a ceremony in Lodwar on Thursday.

Speaking at the event, Turkana Deputy Governor John Erus noted the importance of quality education in transforming individuals and communities, hence the county's commitment to revitalising academic training and child protection.

Erus also announced the launch of a Sh534 million scheme aimed at providing more bursaries, scholarships, and loans to cater to bright and needy students across Turkana. He urged the beneficiaries to work hard to motivate others and serve as ambassadors for the banking institutions that have supported them.

Delvine Timer, one of the 14 beneficiaries, shared her story, saying she became a mother at a young age but found the motivation to return to school.

“I went back to primary school and worked hard to redeem myself. I am happy that KCB has come along to help me reach my academic goals,” she said.

Christine Tatoi, manager of KCB's Lodwar branch, said the number of beneficiaries of the KCB Foundation Scholarship has increased since its launch in 2005. It covers tuition fees, the cost of learning materials, and a stipend.

Tatoi promised that the foundation would consider extending the sponsorship to university education, should the students excel in secondary school.

"KCB is open to an extension of the scholarship to university education to ensure completion of the cycle,” she said.

Present during the event were Paul Lodunga (Chief Officer, Office of the Governor), Margaret Lomosingo (Area chief, Lodwar Township), Weldon Langat (NBK Lodwar Branch Manager), Ken Logilae (KCB), beneficiaries and their parents.