Launched of Ustawi Education Scholarships and the first Tunza Career Guidance

The Council launched the Ustawi Education Scholarships and the first Tunza Career Guidance and Mentorship Programme for students with disabilities, in an event held at the University of Nairobi.
The Ustawi scholarships programme is a conglomerate of scholarship initiatives run by the Council namely Faulu, Wezesha, KPC Inuka, KCB Foundation and Hellen McGowan scholarships. Currently, Faulu scholarship has 1000 students; Wezesha Scholarship 376 students; KPC Foundation 376 students; KCB Foundation 200 and Hellen McGowan 4 students with disabilities. The new Tunza initiative is aimed at linking students with mentors tailored to their unique goals and aspirations.
The event, in which Cabinet Secretary – Labour and Social Protection Hon. Florence Bore was the Chief Guest, hosted about 200 beneficiaries of the Council’s scholarship programmes. Other dignitaries present included Principal Secretary – Social Protection Mr. Joseph Motari MBS, Council’s Board of Directors, UON Vice Chancellor Prof. Stephen Kiama, Hon. Bishop Emeritus Dr. Jackson Kosgei, Hon. Senator George Mbugua, Hon. Isaac Mwaura, Hon. David Sankok, KISE Director Dr. Norman Kiogora, Ombudsman’s Vice Chairperson Washington Sati among others.
CS Bore appreciated partners who have collaborated with the Council in addressing the surging demand for educational assistance among students. She urged other partners to join in and help the Ustawi Programme to grow, while also pledging her commitment to join the Council in lobbying for more resources. The Council was also urged to work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure persons with disabilities, including students with disabilities, are registered for them not to miss out on such opportunities.
Executive Director Harun Hassan noted that the shift of provision of educational support from bursaries to full scholarships is aimed at ensuring retention, transition and completion of education for students with disabilities. He also urged the students to take advantage of the opportunities availed to them, hailing the mentorship programme as a huge chance to equip the learners with skills, confidence and hope for them to become valuable leaders in our society.