Connecting dreams to opportunities: MKU Foundation scholarship beneficiaries excel in the job market
For nearly a decade, Mount Kenya University Foundation (MKUF) has enabled a diverse tapestry of students achieve their academic dreams by offering full or partial scholarships. These scholarships, which are issued after a thorough application and vetting process, are open to all bona-fide students of Mount Kenya University. MKUF also engages in other programmes whose overall goal is to advance the course of education, and serve the community.
In early July, MKUF sponsored the procurement and installation of cutting-edge recreational sporting facilities for students with special needs. The facilities include a showdown table and bats, opaque blindfolds and goal balls. MKUF also donated a 100-seater tent to Huduma Centre-Thika. The Centre serves about 1,300 Kenyans per day and the tent comes in handy in shielding them from rain or scorching sun.
MERCY CHELAGAT
Place of work: Elite Group of Schools, Murang’a County
Programme: Bachelor of Education (Special Needs)
“I was a recipient of the Mount Kenya University Foundation scholarships in semester 3.2. The scholarship enabled me to finish my education and graduate on time, alongside my peers. The high quality education from Mount Kenya University enabled me to get a job soon after graduation. Being at MKU was also a good experience, especially networking with different people. Upon graduation, I furthered my training by undertaking a sign language course at Kenya Institute of Special Education. I now teach multiple classes and subjects at my school, namely English literature to Grade 7 and 8 pupils, and to Form Four candidates. I also teach Agriculture and Nutrition. I have a passion in working with children who have special needs. My dream is to work at United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).”
CYNTHIA MUTHONI
Place of work: Ruiru Hospital, Kiambu County
Programme: Bachelor of Counselling Psychology
“I work at the hospital’s psychology department and at the Comprehensive Care Centre. Clients are referred to us when in need of counselling over various issues such as loss and grief, and psychological trauma. We also provide counselling to HIV patients who are in denial, and students who are referred to us.
Initially, I wanted to become a lawyer. At Graceland Girls in Nyeri, where I undertook my secondary education, I was a very good debater. It was while researching on one debate topic that I came across the subject of psychology. I found it very interesting and decided to study it at Mount Kenya University. The scholarship from Mount Kenya University Foundation enabled me complete my studies. I am now volunteering at Ruiru Hospital as I prepare to pursue my Masters in Forensic Psychology. I am also pursuing a German language course.”
MAENYA MAKORI JOASH
Place of work: Wayara Secondary, Homa Bay County
Programme: Bachelor of Education (Special Needs)
“I hail from a humble background in Kisii County. My parents are peasant farmers. The scholarship from Mount Kenya University Foundation enabled me to complete my studies. I graduated with a Second Class-Upper Division. Even before my graduation, I had resolved that hard work and pursuit of excellence would be my pillars as I entered the job market. I was therefore not selective in the places of work. When I got this opportunity in Homa Bay, I jumped at it. I teach English and Literature to students from Form One to Form Four. At 23, I believe I am on the right course professionally. I hope to go back to MKU soon to pursue my Masters degree. I am grateful to MKU Foundation for making my dream come true.”
