I&M Foundation has partnered with Help Change Lives to support 211 students across 39 public universities in Kenya with tuition fees, stipends and laptops, in an initiative aimed at easing financial barriers to higher education and improving access to digital learning.
The programme combines financial assistance with technology to help beneficiaries meet education-related expenses and access digital resources required for their studies. The support is intended to reduce some of the financial pressures that can make it difficult for students to continue their university education.
During a laptop handover ceremony in Nairobi, I&M Bank Kenya Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamed urged beneficiaries to embrace continuous learning and use their education to create opportunities for others.
The provision of laptops is particularly relevant as university learning increasingly involves digital research, online learning platforms, electronic academic resources and preparation of assignments. Students without suitable devices can face additional challenges accessing these resources and completing academic work.
By combining tuition support, stipends and laptops, the initiative seeks to address several needs that can affect students’ ability to concentrate on their education. Tuition assistance helps with academic costs, while stipends can contribute towards other expenses associated with university life.
The partnership also highlights the role of private-sector foundations and non-profit organisations in supporting access to education. Working together allows organisations to direct resources towards students who require financial assistance and practical learning tools.
The programme began in September and includes support for students enrolled in public universities across the country.
The initiative comes as access to technology becomes an increasingly important part of higher education. Reliable devices can help students participate in digital learning, conduct research and develop skills relevant to employment and further study.
The long-term impact will depend on whether the financial and technological support helps beneficiaries continue their studies and complete their qualifications. For the students involved, the partnership offers assistance with both the cost of education and the tools needed to participate in a more digitally connected learning environment.
