The M-Pesa Foundation has thrown a lifeline to Kenya’s brightest but most vulnerable students, officially opening applications for its 2026 scholarship programme. In a country where the cost of secondary education continues to crush household budgets, this fully funded initiative promises not just tuition, but a complete overhaul of the beneficiaries’ future trajectories.

This announcement comes at a critical time. With inflation hovering around 6.8% and school fees in public national schools capping at over KES 53,000 annually (excluding shopping and upkeep), millions of parents are at a breaking point. The scholarship targets learners currently in Grade 8 who will sit for the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and transition to Grade 9, as well as those preparing for the Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) in November 2026. It is not merely charity; it is a strategic investment in the country’s human capital.

Strict Eligibility Criteria

The Foundation has made it clear: this is for the "neediest of the needy" who also possess academic brilliance. The selection process is rigorous, designed to filter out fraud and ensure aid reaches those in genuine destitution. Key requirements include:

• Academic Merit: Applicants must demonstrate consistent top performance in their internal and national assessments.
• Proven Vulnerability: Evidence of financial incapacity is mandatory. This includes orphan status, parents living with disabilities, or extreme poverty verified by local administration.
• Leadership Potential: Beyond books, the Foundation seeks well-rounded individuals who have served in school leadership roles.

The Application Anatomy

The deadline is set for May 15, 2026. Late submissions will be summarily rejected. The application form, available at Safaricom shops and online, requires a dossier of supporting documents: birth certificates, parent/guardian IDs, and stamped academic reports. "We are looking for diamonds in the rough," said a Foundation spokesperson. "We want the child who studies by a kerosene lamp in Turkana and still tops their class."

More Than Just Fees

Successful candidates gain admission to the M-Pesa Foundation Academy in Thika, a state-of-the-art institution that rivals high-end international schools. The package includes:

• Full tuition and boarding fees for four years.
• Uniforms, transport, and pocket money.
• Access to world-class sports facilities and technology labs.
• Healthcare coverage for the student.

This holistic approach addresses the hidden costs of education that often cause dropouts even when tuition is paid. By removing every financial barrier, the Foundation ensures that the only thing the student needs to worry about is their grades.

As the May deadline approaches, the race is on. For thousands of families across the 47 counties, this application form is more than a piece of paper—it is a lottery ticket to a life of dignity, professional success, and the breaking of generational poverty chains.