At least 1500 learners in Amboseli got scholarships to further their education from the the Big Life Foundation program.
And through the wildlife scholarship and education program at least700 learners have graduated from university since it started 10 years ago.
Some other 800 learners are currently pursuing the education program under the scholarship in various secondary schools, tertiary institutions and universities.
While addressing the media on Monday during the 10th Student’s Open Day for the Wildlife Scholarship and Education Program in Mbirikani, Director Wildlife Scholarship and Education Program, Samar Ntalamia said the 700 alumni have realized their dreams through joining various professions through the initiative.
Since inception in 2012, Ntalamia elaborated that the number of those who benefitting from the program increased from the figure of 50 during the inception to 800 where at least 511 are offered full scholarship while 289 are under one-off scholarship.
The program which has evolved with time looks at the children on a case by case basis considering the skills, talent and passion of a child.
According to the Director the program is also tailored to cater for those learners who are not academically gifted.
Ntalamia said the program has hence become accessible and inclusive to many learners who otherwise would have not benefitted from other avenues hence giving them a chance to better their lives.
The Director added that Big Life Foundation has also partnered with regional vocational and technical colleges which offers hands-on training and also with Story Moja, an Organisation that offers career on guidance and counseling.
Separately Ntalamia observed that in coordination with other donors were able to source funds for assisting schools adversely affected by the prevailing drought.
He added that through the initiative they were able to reach over 30, 000 children.
He also pointed out that apart from scholarships Big Life is engaged in institutional infrastructural development in schools such as construction of dormitories, classes as a way of investing in the community.
By Kimani Tirus and Gloria Mutinda
