Programs
Our programs
Three connected programs, one purpose: support academically gifted, underprivileged students through the full arc of their education, with the communities that raised them.
Scholar 01
Our first scholar was ten years old. Her parents could not afford her school fees. Within a few weeks, Umoja covered the fees, supplied her books, clothed her, and gave her a mentor who checked in every term. She has not missed a school year since.
That is the programme in a single story. Financial support, consistent mentorship, and a community that knows her name. Every Umoja scholar receives exactly the same.
What we provide
Three pillars, one scholar
A scholarship alone rarely changes a life. All three pillars together do. Every Umoja scholar receives all three from day one.
Scholarships
We cover the full cost of a scholar's education. The holistic package keeps students in school and lets them focus entirely on learning, not on how to pay for it.
What's included
- School fees paid in full
- Learning materials and textbooks
- Clothing and school uniform
- Monthly pocket money
Mentorship
Every Umoja scholar is paired with a dedicated mentor who stays in regular contact through each term, offering guidance, motivation, and personalised advice.
What's included
- Assigned personal mentor
- Regular check-ins each term
- Academic and personal guidance
- Alumni connection on completion
Community engagement
Selection, support, and progress reporting happen alongside the school headmasters, teachers, and community leaders who know each scholar personally.
What's included
- School headmaster referrals
- Teacher progress reports
- Community leader endorsement
- Home visits and family meetings
How it works
From nomination to network
A five-step relationship that begins before a scholarship is awarded and continues into alumni life.
- 01
Nomination
School headmasters, teachers, or community leaders refer academically gifted students with strong character and genuine financial need.
- 02
Assessment
We review each nomination alongside supporting documentation. Home visits and family conversations confirm both need and commitment.
- 03
Award
A full holistic scholarship is awarded: school fees, books, clothing, pocket money, and a matched mentor from our volunteer pool.
- 04
Support
Termly check-ins between the scholar, their mentor, and the family keep everyone accountable and the scholar supported through each year.
- 05
Continuity
Scholars remain with Umoja through their full academic journey. Alumni stay connected as mentors for the next generation of scholars.
Why this works
Continuity is the programme.
Umoja's support is not limited to tuition. From the first scholarship in 2021, every scholar has received the same holistic package: educational expenses, materials, clothing, pocket money, and a dedicated mentor who stays in regular contact through every term.
Student selection
How we choose scholars
Seven principles that shape every scholarship decision. We select the most deserving students through a clearly defined, fair, and transparent process.
Merit-based selection
We prioritise academically gifted students with a track record of excellence and a commitment to their education, identified by those closest to them.
Financial need
Applicants provide documentation of financial hardship. Home visits or interviews may be conducted to assess living conditions and genuine need.
Demonstrated commitment
Applicants submit a personal statement. Parents or guardians sign an agreement to actively support the student's academic journey.
Holistic evaluation
We consider character attributes including leadership potential, resilience, and willingness to contribute. Extracurricular involvement is taken into account.
Transparent criteria
Our selection standards are clearly defined and published. Family members or close associates of Umoja staff are not eligible to apply.
Independent review
An independent panel of educators, community leaders, and Umoja representatives reviews every application to ensure objectivity throughout.
Ongoing monitoring
Selected scholars are regularly reviewed for academic progress. Mentorship and guidance are provided through every year of their education.
Help us reach the next student
Today we fully support five scholars, and we want that number to grow. Fund a scholarship, volunteer as a mentor, or partner as a school or institution.