In many developing countries schools charge tuition, posing an insurmountable obstacle to the poorest children. By providing funding for secondary school, GEF helps deserving young orphans and vulnerable children overcome this barrier and greatly increase their opportunities for a better life. Studies show that young women, in particular, reap enormous benefits from a secondary school education, ranging from increased wages, to decreased population growth, to improved family health and the increased likelihood of educating future generations.

From 2005-2007 , Global Education Fund piloted a high school scholarship program for students at the Ban Kru Noi orphanage in Bangkok, Thailand, which is now fully sustained through local Thai support.

In 2008 , the Global Education Fund Leadership Program was launched in response to the complex and interrelated challenges facing Kenyan orphans. Vast numbers of Kenyan orphans, particularly young women, lack the funds to attend high school and are often forced into early marriage or unskilled labor. Those who manage to graduate from high school often remain trapped in poverty because they lack the practical skills and network of support to gain meaningful employment or pursue additional education.

The Program provides poor Kenyan youth, predominantly orphaned girls, with an education both inside and outside of the classroom. It includes: four year high school scholarships; training in critical real-world skills through workshops, retreats and service projects; and a network of support through mentorships with university students, adult coaches and peer support groups.

The Leadership Program is based on the belief that a combination of rigorous academic preparation, practical training and strong relationships will enable participants to reach their full potential and improve the lives of others. The practices that have made GEF successful around the world are reflected throughout the Leadership Program: local community leaders conceived of and manage the day to day work; local civic and business leaders act as advisors; strong partnerships are in place with high schools, the Africa Nazarene University and several non-profits; and careful selection, monitoring and evaluation systems have been implemented.

Education:

• 4 year high school scholarships
• Supplementary tutoring and resource materials

Critical Life Skills:

• Workshops to build critical life skills: finance, personal health, conflict management are planned for 2009
• Community Service Projects: independent, student-led projects to make an immediate difference in their own communities and to gain hands-on, practical leadership and management skills
• Experiential Learning Opportunities: ranging from multi-day retreats to experiential games at one-day workshops to build confidence, team building and self-awareness.

Supportive Relationships:

• Mentors: career and academic advice from Kenyan university students
• Peer Support: regular meetings with students attending the same school to develop leadership skills and deep bonds of support.
• Post secondary guidance: advice and planning for employment or additional education
• Coaching: ongoing support from GEF staff and other trained, caring adults

Click here to learn more from our Leadership Scholars.