So one of our long-term volunteers and Maryknoll Lay Missioner, Michael Leen, appealed to private donors in the United States, and they responded. As a result, we are able to offer scholarships to empower young mothers and their children to continue their education - be it in the formal education system or a vocational training program.
This scholarship program is open to young mothers who have completed EBLI computer literacy and entrepreneurship and group enterprise training, and are active members in a Hisa saving and loaning group. To apply, each eligible young mother completes a form, and each form must be signed by a parent or legal guardian. Additionally, each young mother and her family is asked to contribute at least 25% towards the total cost of the school fees. Why? Because it demonstrates commitment and a strong desire to pursue the sought after education.
The educational program chosen must be a short course - no longer than one year in length. So what have these young mothers chosen to study? Read on below to find out.
Nyafulu: Scholarship to Study English Language
Nyafulu made it very clear: she wants to be a nursery or kindergarten teacher in a private school. What is one of the chief requirements of this position? A basic command of the English language. With that in mind, Nyafulu enrolled in a three-month English language learning course at International Languages Training Centre here in Mwanza. Nyafulu was given USD 60 to pursue this opportunity, which she topped up with her own contribution. Now she is on her way to achieving her professional aspirations. |
Nice and Pudensiana: Scholarship to Learn Sewing
After completing entrepreneurship and group enterprise training, Nice and Pudensiana wanted to run their own sewing business. Having minimal skills, they enrolled in a six-month sewing course taught by Fortitude Vocational Training Centre. The course will teach them how to sew clothing for men and women, how to apply creativity in their fashion designs, how to care for sewing equipment, and how to offer good customer service. Nice and Pudensiana received USD 102 each to enroll in this course, which they supplemented with their own contributions. |