By Silas Otieno and Njoki Chege

On March 7, Education for All Children (EFAC) hosted a transformative Bridge-to-College workshop at Africa Nazarene University, bringing together over 90 EFAC scholars and representatives from key organizations, including the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at USIU-Africa, KCB Foundation, and Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO). The event was designed to equip students with essential knowledge, skills, and resources to transition successfully into higher education and beyond.

EFAC is a non-profit foundation established in 2008 with the aim of providing an education-to-employment program for Kenyan youth who perform well in school but lack access to secondary education. Ms. Beth Wakobi, Director of Programs at EFAC, commenced the workshop by highlighting that the foundation has impacted nearly 1,000 students, through scholarships, workshops, multiple webinars, two years of employment guidance, training and placement. She further added that these efforts have positioned EFAC as a major force in education-to-employment field.

Beth explained that EFAC are doing more than simply funding education; they are preparing their scholars for life situations thereby showcasing the foundation’s commitment to enhancing partnerships that ensure scholars' preparedness. She then urged the EFAC scholars to take full advantage of this workshop. “This workshop is an opportunity to learn, connect, and shape your future. Engage actively, ask questions, and take full advantage of the insights you will gain today,” she said.

As the workshop progressed, students were enriched with the necessary knowledge on safeguarding their rights to prevent child abuse outlining the procedures for disclosure and reporting. The session sought to ensure that the students understood how to address alleged violations, seek help and act when necessary.

The KCB Foundation then took to the stage where they discussed financial literacy equipping students with essential financial planning skills for university life and beyond. From practical guidance on budgeting, to responsible spending, to financial planning, the team advocated for financial stability urging the students to cultivate a savings culture early, avoid unnecessary debt, and explore investment opportunities as early as now.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at USIU-Africa was also represented with Ms. Lilian Makinia, Program Officer-Transitions, giving a comprehensive overview of the initiative, and outlining the program’s four key pillars—Recruit, Educate, Prepare, and Transition. She pointed out that these pillars ensure that Mastercard Foundation Scholars benefit from financial support as well as leadership training, mentorship, and career readiness. On that note, Lilian encouraged students to be proactive in seeking these opportunities. “Success is built on preparation and initiative. Use the resources at your disposal, form networks, and believe in your potential,” she advised.

She also highlighted that USIU-Africa stands out as a premier institution and that it offers industry-aligned programs, a state-of-the-art facilities, a multicultural learning environment, dedicated career services, a holistic education enriched by vibrant student life, and global exchange opportunities that ensures students are well equipped for the global market.

The day concluded with an elevating session from Silas Otieno, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar alumnus, currently serving as part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team at USIU-Africa who spoke about purpose and the endless opportunities available for young people. “No one succeeds alone. Lift each other up, share knowledge, and ensure that no one is left behind, ‘’ he stated.

This workshop served as a launchpad for EFAC scholars ready to mold out their futures.