The M-Pesa Foundation Academy has announced the opening of its annual scholarship programme, calling for applications from interested candidates.
The foundation was established in 2016 by Safaricom to empower talented but economically disadvantaged students across Kenya through quality education, leadership development, and innovative learning opportunities.
The programme offers these students an opportunity to access a fully funded world-class education, covering tuition, accommodation, meals, and other academic-related expenses.
The transformative programme targets bright and ambitious learners aged between 14 and 16, providing a four-year residential education under the International Baccalaureate (IB) Curriculum.
“Are you a bright, ambitious student from an economically marginalised background? Are you ready to unlock your potential and transform your future . The MPESA Foundation Academy offers a life-changing, fully-funded scholarship designed just for you!” M-Pesa Foundation Academy posted on its social media platforms.
Admission is evaluated using the following criteria: academic excellence, leadership and entrepreneurship potential, financial need, responsible citizenship, critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Successful applicants will engage in a two-phase academic journey, starting with the Middle Years Programme, followed by the Diploma Programme.
The academy’s learning model encompasses a holistic approach that combines academic excellence, innovation, and character development to prepare students for global leadership and entrepreneurship opportunities.
“Join our 2026 academic year and experience a world-class education delivered through innovative, tech-savvy methods. Develop into a holistic leader equipped with skills in technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, arts, sports, and music—ready to shape the future,” the academy added.
The foundation’s admission cycle is targeting learners who will sit for their Grade 9 Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) in November 2025.
Successful applicants will join the Academy in January 2026 for a three-year boarding programme to study the CBC Senior Secondary Curriculum.
The scholarship is open to all, including students from diverse backgrounds such as refugees and those with Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
How to apply and Requirements
1. Applicants must obtain an application form from any Safaricom Shop or download it from the M-Pesa Foundation Academy’s website and submit the applcications before the deadline on April 30, 2025.
2. Applicants must be at least 14 and not more than 16 years of age at the time they are expected to join the Academy.
3. To complete the application, aspiring attendees must submit the following essential documents:
•Birth certificate
•Parent/Guardian ID and pay slip (if employed)
•Parent death certificate (if applicable)
•Academic transcripts/reports for classes 6 and 7 (and class 8, if available)
•Evidence of leadership and co-curricular activity certificates
4. Applications must be filled out by the student in their handwriting, with all details written clearly and accurately.
They must write their first and last name in capital letters at the top of each page as it appears on their Birth Certificate in case the pages detach.
Incomplete applications or failure to provide required documents or requisite information will result in automatic disqualification.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The M-Pesa Foundation Academy is highly reputable, with distinguished board members including Vivo Group CEO Wandia Gichuru and entrepreneur Wambui Collymore.
