Elgeyo Marakwet County sent its first batch of students to study in the United States.
This was spearheaded Governor Winsley Rotich’s Education Airlift Programme known as “Pepea.”
The program has taken a significant step forward while neighboring Uasin Gishu County grapples with scholarship program challenges.
Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Winsley Rotich signing a deal for students to study overseas at subsidized rates. Photo| Courtesy.
Pepea Education Programme
Under Governor Rotich’s leadership, Elgeyo Marakwet has paved the way for promising young minds to spread their wings globally. The maiden batch of students were recently flown to Harding University as part of the Pepea initiative.
Clearly, this achievement shows the commitment of the county administration to provide accessible and affordable international education opportunities.
Governor Rotich forged a partnership with Harding University through its International Dean of Education, David Collins. The agreement not only secures students’ places at the prestigious institution but also offers subsidized rates.
Thus rendering quality overseas education more attainable for the youth of Elgeyo Marakwet County.
Other Overseas Scholarship Deals
Additionally, Governor Rotich’s good plan doesn’t stop there. Plans are already underway to expand the Pepea programme’s horizons. Talks are in progress to establish partnerships with Tacom College in the United States and Torrens University in Australia.
These partnerships aim to widen the spectrum of opportunities for students. Therefore providing them with diverse choices for pursuing higher education.
Evidently, the Pepea programme boasts a comprehensive approach. It encompasses Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with foreign universities.
These MoUs facilitate admissions for students from Elgeyo Marakwet under sponsored programs, elevating the county’s youth to a global platform of learning.
Moreover, the programme extends its influence to foreign countries. Consequently enabling students to study abroad and subsequently secure employment upon graduation.
Overall Inclusivity
Governor Rotich has urged parents and students from the county to visit Pepea offices and take advantage of the scholarships on offer. Approximately 75 students have secured admissions to Australia’s Cambridge International College University on a 50 percent scholarship.
Additionally, 25 other students have achieved admissions to Canadian universities, marking a remarkable accomplishment for the county.
With an eye towards inclusivity, Governor Rotich has pledged to negotiate even more student-friendly conditions. Truly, this will ensure that individuals from humble backgrounds are not left behind.
Meanwhile, neighboring Uasin Gishu County’s is still struggling with scholarship programme setbacks. However, there is hope for Uasin Gishu as EACC announced its near conclusion into investigating the scholarship saga.
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