In today's rapidly evolving world, access to quality education stands as a beacon of hope for thousands of children in Kenya, offering arguably the best pathways to brighter futures and opportunities previously thought unattainable.

Unfortunately, bright students from underprivileged backgrounds often miss out on the chance to create a better future for themselves and their communities due to a lack of school fees.

As organized groups and corporate organizations roll out plans to help needy children access quality education, the NCBA Group is also stepping up its offering. NCBA Group has announced a Kes12 million financing plan that will support over 100 students this year.

This initiative is more than just a monetary allocation towards fees for needy students; it is a promise of empowerment and transformation.

This financial commitment, which will be distributed through various partners, is poised to reach beneficiaries from all corners of Kenya. It underscores the belief that education is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all.

Through this initiative, which is aligned with NCBA Group's "Change the Story" sustainability platform, barriers to education will be dismantled, ensuring that an even higher number of bright scholars, regardless of their background or family income circumstances, have an equal chance to realize their full potential.

By striking alliances with organizations such as the Dr. Choksey Albinism Foundation, M-PESA Foundation, Edumed Trust, SOS Children’s Villages Kenya, Daraja Kenya Initiative, and the Palmhouse Foundation, NCBA Group is actively working to empower underprivileged youth aged 7-25 at primary, secondary, and university levels in Kenya.

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NCBA's 'Change the Story' sustainability platform

These partnerships are integral to NCBA's 'Change the Story' sustainability platform, which has been in place for the last 17 years.

John Gachora, NCBA Group Managing Director, highlighted the regioanal lender's holistic approach to education, stating, "Our commitment to education goes beyond financial contribution."

"We want to provide an environment that caters to the nurturing of holistic individuals who will in turn pass on their skills to the next generation," Gachora explained.

At the moment, NCBA Group sponsors 55 students under the Dr. Choksey Albinism Foundation, two under the M-PESA Foundation, 16 under the Edumed Trust, nine under SOS Children’s Villages Kenya, two under Daraja Kenya Initiatives, and 68 under the Palmhouse Foundation.

To enhance its reach and impact across Kenya, the NCBA has onboarded two new foundations as partners this year: Kenya Scholar Access Program (KENSAP) and WEDCO.

Through KENSAP, a total of 15 top students from underprivileged backgrounds are provided access to Ivy League colleges, including Harvard, Yale, and Stanford universities in the USA among others.

Further, NCBA's partnership with WEDCO will support 25 young Kenyans from informal settlements in 2024, providing them with opportunities they may not have otherwise had.

Speaking during the cheque handover ceremony, NCBA Group Chairman James Ndegwa reiterated the organization's commitment to education, stating, "At NCBA, we have pledged to be active agents in the enablement of equitable and quality education."

"Our commitment, as outlined in our 2023 sustainability strategy, involves an annual allocation of Kes100 Million to support communities, including empowering the youth," Ndegwa explained.

NCBA Group's dedication to education is not just about providing financial support; it is about creating a ripple effect of positive change that will impact generations to come.

By investing in the education of underprivileged youth, NCBA is not only changing individual stories but also transforming communities and shaping a brighter future for Kenya.

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