NAIROBI, Kenya- In a move set to transform the educational journey of vulnerable children and teen mothers, Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) has awarded 1,400 students in Nairobi County full scholarships, starting January 2025.
The initiative, which spans across all 17 sub-counties, aims to eliminate financial barriers to education, ensuring that every child, regardless of their circumstances, can achieve their academic dreams.
The scholarship program doesn’t just focus on school fees—it’s a holistic support system. According to SHOFCO Founder and CEO Dr. Kennedy Odede, the initiative extends a lifeline to teen mothers who had previously been unable to return to school.
“These young mothers face financial challenges and a lack of childcare support. Our scholarships will bridge this gap, allowing them to complete high school while caring for their children,” Dr. Odede explained.
The teen mothers will also receive stipends to help them manage childcare at home, along with mentorship and counseling to navigate the dual responsibilities of parenthood and education.
“This isn’t just about funding—it’s about building a strong support system to help them thrive,” Odede added.
One of the beneficiaries, Rose Nduta, expressed her gratitude, highlighting how the scholarship eases financial strain and provides much-needed resources like uniforms and school supplies.
“SHOFCO has lifted a massive burden off my shoulders. My child can now concentrate fully on her studies,” she said.
Dr. Odede revealed SHOFCO’s ambitious plan to expand the program, targeting 10,000 girls across Kenya in the coming years. “This is just the beginning. We aim to scout for students nationwide, giving them the support they need to realize their dreams,” he said.
SHOFCO’s educational outreach extends beyond scholarships. The organization runs Kibera School for Girls and Mathare School for Girls, which cater to 580 students from grades one through eight.
These students benefit from free tuition, healthcare, and access to clean water for their families.
To ensure lasting impact, SHOFCO integrates education with broader community development initiatives. For instance, its aerial water piping system in Kibera prevents theft and contamination, delivering clean water to over 200,000 slum residents daily.
Beyond education, SHOFCO’s multifaceted approach addresses pressing community challenges like healthcare, economic empowerment, and youth development.
Its three Level 3 health centers in Kibera and Mathare serve more than 600 patients daily, while its outreach programs reached nearly half a million Kenyans in 2023 alone.
By focusing on systemic change, SHOFCO has become a beacon of hope for millions. “We’re not just investing in today’s children; we’re nurturing tomorrow’s leaders—future doctors, engineers, and educators,” said Dr. Odede.
