A group of 20 needy students has significantly advanced their educational pursuits after being granted full scholarships from KCA University.
The University’s CEO and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaiah Wakindiki, announced that the KCA University Foundation successfully raised Sh17 million during the recent second edition of the VC&CEO cycling tour.
These funds have been allocated to support the education of the selected students.
The cycling tour, which involved collaboration with 27 partners, including the National Transport and Safety Authority, spanned 1,002 kilometers, covering routes from Nairobi to Nakuru, Kapsabet, Chavakali, Kakamega, Kisumu, Kisii, Bomet, Narok, Limuru, and back to Nairobi.
In an interview at the university, Prof. Wakindiki highlighted that many students are experiencing financial hardships that hinder their academic progress, as their parents or guardians face numerous challenges such as extreme poverty, health issues, and substance abuse.
“We have provided 20 full scholarships to students in need, aiming to allow them to focus on their studies and reach their full potential. This initiative is part of our outreach efforts to gather resources to assist students from less privileged backgrounds,” stated Prof. Wakindiki.
According to data from the Commission for University Education (CUE), 60% of university dropouts are linked to the inability to pay tuition fees, a significant barrier that not only affects individual advancement but also hampers national development by leaving a skilled workforce underutilized.
These statistics underscore the urgent need for resource mobilization initiatives by higher education institutions to offer financial assistance, encouragement, and transformative opportunities to underprivileged students, paving the way for a brighter future.
Prof. Wakindiki expressed concern over the high dropout rates among students, attributing this issue primarily to financial difficulties. He emphasized that initiatives and partnerships among higher education institutions can play a crucial role in supporting disadvantaged students and enhancing their prospects for the future.
“This situation necessitates a collective effort among educators and supporters to ensure that financially challenged students remain in school. By extending our support, we can empower those in need,” the Vice Chancellor stated.
Additionally, Prof. Wakindiki urged higher education institutions to assist young innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives in bringing their products to market.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration with industry to help these emerging innovators transform their ideas into viable commercial products.
The professor noted that universities have a significant responsibility in bridging the gap between academia and industry to promote sustainable innovation.
He revealed that KCA University has established a Research Fund aimed at fostering, stimulating, and operationalizing innovations.
“We invite our partners, sponsors, and stakeholders to support KCA University’s initiative to enhance research, innovation, and the commercialization of research outcomes,” he remarked.
Prof. Wakindiki further stated:”We must strive to cultivate an environment that not only promotes academic excellence but also empowers our students to innovate, create, and lead in a landscape that requires new ideas and courageous solutions. Our commitment to fostering a culture of research, innovation, and the commercialization of research outputs remains steadfast.”
