The KCB Foundation Scholarship Programme stands as one of the most comprehensive social investment initiatives in Kenya, designed to bridge the gap between academic potential and financial hardship. Since its inception in 2007, the programme has evolved from a basic fee-support initiative into a holistic development model that nurtures students from secondary school through to university and the professional world.
Core Mission and Impact: KCB Foundation Scholarship
At its heart, the scholarship aims to increase transition rates from primary to secondary school for students from underserved and marginalized communities. By 2026, the foundation has supported over 5,800 scholars, maintaining a remarkable 99% high school completion rate. Its effectiveness is further proven by a 84% transition rate to universities and colleges, significantly higher than the national average.
High School Scholarship Structure
The flagship “KCB Scholars Programme” targets bright students who have sat for their final primary or junior school examinations (KJSEA/KCPE) but lack the means to join high school.
- Financial Coverage: The scholarship is “full,” meaning it covers school fees, books, uniforms, and stationary for the entire four-year duration.
- Inclusion Categories: The programme is intentionally diverse, reserving slots for specific vulnerable groups.
- 50% of slots are allocated to girls, with a focus on survivors of FGM, teenage mothers, and those rescued from early marriages.
- 10% of slots (approximately 100 annually) are reserved for learners living with disabilities.
- Special consideration is also given to orphans and students from regions affected by cattle rustling or extreme poverty.
University and Tertiary Support
A major differentiator for KCB is its “Top 50” policy. Each year, the top 50 performers from the high school scholarship cohort—specifically those achieving A or A- grades—receive full university scholarships. This includes tuition coverage and critical learning tools, such as laptops, to ensure they remain competitive in a digital academic environment. For those not pursuing university, the foundation supports technical and vocational (TVET) pathways, ensuring no learner is left behind regardless of their academic route.
Mentorship and Professional Development
Unlike many financial-only grants, KCB provides psychosocial support. Each student is assigned a mentor from a local KCB branch for quarterly one-on-one sessions. During school holidays, scholars attend mentorship boot camps focused on leadership, financial literacy, and career guidance.
The transition to the professional world is facilitated through:
- Apprenticeships: High-performing students often receive three-month apprenticeships at KCB Bank branches.
- Career Guidance: Structured pathways into internships and employment are part of the long-term engagement strategy.
Eligibility and Application Process
To qualify for the intake, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Merit: Must have sat for the Grade 9 KJSEA at a public junior school and met the prescribed county merit scores.
- Financial Need: Must demonstrate they come from a needy background through a rigorous verification process, which includes home visits by KCB staff.
- Application Procedure: Application forms are typically available starting in December at any KCB Branch countrywide or on the foundation’s website.
Conclusion
The KCB Foundation Scholarship is more than a fund; it is a life-changing catalyst for thousands of Kenyan youth. By integrating financial aid with mentorship and career placement, it effectively breaks the cycle of poverty and empowers a new generation of leaders to contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s national development.
