Bomet: In a bold step to support higher education and youth empowerment, a multinational company, Browns Plantations-Kenya, has awarded full undergraduate scholarships to 28 bright and needy students from Bomet and Kericho counties at a ceremony held at Bomet Hotel.
According to Kenya News Agency, the beneficiaries include 22 top-performing students-two from each constituency across Bomet and Kericho counties-and six dependents of Browns Plantations employees, reflecting the company's commitment to uplift the lives of the neighbouring community and workers. This initiative is in fulfilment of the company's corporate social responsibility programme.
Browns Plantations Kenya CEO, Dushanth Ratwatte, disclosed that each scholarship is worth Sh150,000 per academic year, covering tuition fees in Kenya's public universities, together with a laptop to enhance digital learning for the beneficiaries. The CEO revealed that this year's total investment in the scholarship programme amounts to Sh19.9 million and urged the recipients to work hard in their studies to give value to the investment.
Since its inception, Browns' education programmes have reached over 1,147 beneficiaries, including 586 secondary school students, 80 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) learners, 456 undergraduate students, and 25 postgraduate scholars. In addition to scholarships, the company has invested over Sh317 million in 79 education infrastructure projects across Bomet and Kericho. These projects range from modernising classrooms in secondary schools to equipping TVET workshops, libraries, laboratories, dormitories, and dining halls.
Beyond financial aid, Browns' mentorship programme has reached over 11,000 learners in 11 schools, building confidence, life skills, and discipline, leading to improved academic performance and behaviour.
The event was graced by Prof. Charles Mutai, Principal of Bomet University College, who delivered a speech on behalf of Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Higher Education and Research. Dr. Inyangala noted that the government is committed to expanding access to quality higher education and commended Browns Plantations Kenya for complementing their efforts by ensuring that bright, needy students can access university education.
Last month, 40 TVET scholarships were awarded to learners from the two counties to study at Belgut and Konoin Technical Training Institutes in Automotive Engineering and Plumbing Technology, showcasing the company's full-spectrum approach to education support across all levels.
With each scholarship and mentorship effort, Browns Plantations Kenya continues to shape not just individual futures but the future of entire communities.