Background

Jane is a 19-year-old girl from Kibera, one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements. Growing up in a single-parent household, Jane’s mother struggled to make ends meet as a casual laborer. Despite Jane’s academic potential, her family could not afford to pay her secondary school fees, and she was at risk of dropping out after completing primary school.

Intervention by No Child Left Behind (NCLB)

In 2018, Jane was identified by NCLB’s community outreach team during a school visit in Kibera. After assessing her academic performance and financial situation, NCLB awarded her a full scholarship to cover her secondary school fees, uniforms, and learning materials. Additionally, Jane was enrolled in NCLB’s mentorship program, where she was paired with a mentor who provided guidance on her academic and career goals.

Outcome

With NCLB’s support, Jane excelled in her studies and scored an A- in her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams. She was admitted to the University of Nairobi to pursue a degree in Medicine. NCLB continues to support Jane through its university scholarship program, ensuring she has the resources to complete her education.

Impact

Jane’s story is a testament to the transformative power of financial aid and mentorship. She is now on track to becoming a doctor, a dream she once thought was impossible. Jane hopes to return to Kibera after graduation to provide healthcare services to her community.