The results of the national exam (K.C.S.E.) determine whether students can go to university. Currently an overall grade of C+ is required to join Kenya’s public universities, which the vast majority of Kisima students achieve. The courses they go on to study include Medicine, Electrical Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Law, Computer Science, Education, and Human Resource Management, to name but a few.

The students receive a loan from the Higher Education Loans Board, but also raise additional funds by finding work, applying for bursaries and scholarships or holding a fund-raising event in their home village.

A number of former students have travelled outside Kenya for their university education.  In particular, we have a link with EARTH University in Costa Rica, where seven of our students have been awarded full scholarships to study Agricultural Science. Others have received scholarships to universities in China, Canada, the USA and the UK.

There are other options available apart from university. Some Kisima students have proceeded to middle level colleges, studying diploma courses in areas such as Nursing, Teaching and Accountancy. Others have found training and work opportunities with the Kenya Defence Forces, National Youth Service and Kenya Prison Service.

Kisima alumni are already bringing change to their families and communities, through their education and experience.  Those who are in employment are also assisting their families financially. Their impact includes:

1. Contributing to their families’ living costs – food, medical expenses, school fees for younger siblings
2. Assisting their families by building improved housing
3. Involvement in local development projects
4. Acting as agents for peace between communities
5. Encouraging others to see the importance of education
6. Sharing knowledge about agriculture, health and other issues