A new scholarship initiative by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) is poised to offer a ray of hope to school leavers in the Coastal region. Designed to uplift youth aged between 18 and 35 years who lack formal training at the Diploma level or beyond, this program sets out to bridge educational gaps and create opportunities for a brighter future.
The eligibility criteria for this initiative, which focuses on Kwale, Kilifi, and Mombasa, emphasizes basic literacy skills. KeNHA welcomes applications from individuals who possess KCSE or KCPE certificates, as well as those who may have discontinued their education without receiving formal training.
KeNHA aims to make this opportunity as comprehensive as possible. Successful candidates will not only have their tuition and examination fees covered but will also receive support for necessary course materials and a monthly subsistence allowance. The initiative operates under the umbrella of two multinational projects: the Bagamoyo-Horohoro/Lunga Lunga-Malindi project and the Mombasa-Mariakani highway project, both falling under Phase 1 and Lot 1 respectively. These projects are funded by the African Development Bank and a grant from the European Union.
Inclusivity remains at the core of the program. KeNHA is particularly interested in applicants from low-income families and those residing in informal settlements within the counties traversed by the project roads. The scholarships extend a preferential hand to orphans, individuals from single-parent households, young single mothers meeting the requirements, and persons with disabilities.
The courses on offer span a diverse range of disciplines and trades. Students can engage in welding and fabrication, motor vehicle mechanics, masonry, cake and bread making, decoration, basic electrical work, tailoring, computer operation, hairdressing, plumbing, pipe fitting, beauty therapy, and metal processing technology. The duration of these courses varies, ranging from three to twelve months, contingent on the chosen field of study.
Aspiring scholars can secure their chance by accessing the application forms from the KeNHA website (www.kenha.co.ke) or obtaining hard copies from the KeNHA Coast Regional Offices. To ensure the integrity of the application process, the forms must be stamped by the Area Chief or Assistant County Commissioner as verification of the applicant’s residency status. The deadline for submissions is September 1st at 5 pm.
KeNHA has partnered with the national government and County Education Officers to facilitate the selection process, ensuring transparency and fairness. This initiative is a resounding testament to KeNHA’s commitment to fostering education and creating pathways for the region’s youth to succeed.