Bursary 2024

The Power of Giving: A Look at the GWASA Bursary Program

The Gongo Warom Students Alumni Association (GWASA-CBO) is making a real difference in our community, and the 2024 bursary cycle is a powerful testament to that commitment. In May 2024, the Bursary Committee was formed with a clear mission: to ensure that financial support reaches the students who need it most. Thanks to the generous contributions of our members, GWASA was able to collect a total of Ksh. 110,450 for the fund. The bursary was established to provide financial assistance to eligible applicants in need of support.

To ensure a fair and transparent process, the committee established specific criteria for selection, including financial need, academic performance, and living conditions. The application process officially commenced on August 1, 2024, and concluded on August 25, 2024. A total of 116 applications were received. Applicants were required to submit a completed application form, proof of financial need, academic records, and a personal statement. The review process took place from August 29 to September 9, 2024, with the committee evaluating each application based on compliance with eligibility requirements, academic merit, financial need, and personal circumstances.

The committee’s efforts resulted in the approval of 31 applicants. This included 18 students from Gongo Warom Mixed Secondary School, 10 from other secondary schools, and three from colleges and universities. A total of 85 applications were rejected, primarily due to incomplete forms or ineligibility.

More Than Financial Aid

The bursary funds were officially disbursed between September 14 and 21, 2024. A total of Ksh. 100,000 was allocated to the deserving students. This included Ksh. 52,000 for students from Gongo Warom Mixed Secondary School, Ksh. 33,000 for those in other secondary schools, and Ksh. 15,000 for college and university students. The amount allocated per recipient varied based on their fee balance, though all college and university students received a fixed amount of Ksh. 5,000 each.

A significant highlight of this year’s bursary cycle was the partnership with Touch A Life Add A Smile (TALAAS Family). This collaboration went beyond financial aid, addressing the holistic needs of the students. TALAAS Family generously donated undergarments and sanitary towels to the students, a gesture that went a long way in renewing their hope, dignity, and performance. During this project, the TALAAS Family touched the lives of more than 350 students, with each student benefiting from the donation. This event was also attended by a number of community members, further strengthening the bonds between GWASA, its partners, and the community it serves. This act of kindness underscores the belief that a student’s well-being is crucial for their success, and it aligns perfectly with GWASA’s commitment to supporting the welfare of its members and the broader community.

The 2024 bursary program was a great success, but we know there’s always room to improve. GWASA Family identified key areas for the future, including strengthening our fundraising efforts, refining the application process, and implementing a robust follow-up system to track the impact of the bursaries. By expanding membership and diversifying funding sources, such as seeking grants and partnerships, we can reduce our reliance solely on member contributions and assist more students in the future.

By working together, we can continue to expand our reach and transform lives. Your support helps us ensure that no deserving student is left behind.