Kisumu, October 9, 2024 — The Absa Kenya Foundation (AKF) has officially launched its community initiatives with a significant donation of textbooks and learning materials valued at KES 600,000 to Kisumu Day and Boarding High School. This contribution marks the Foundation’s first project since its establishment as the social arm of Absa Bank Kenya PLC.
The donation aligns with AKF’s strategic focus on Education and Skills, aiming to enhance students’ learning experiences and improve their academic performance. Kisumu Day and Boarding High School, one of the largest secondary schools in the region, serves approximately 1,500 students and employs 62 teaching staff.
During the handover ceremony, Abdi Mohamed, Managing Director and CEO of Absa Bank Kenya, emphasized the importance of education in driving social change. “As a brand, everything we do revolves around our purpose: Empowering Africa’s tomorrow together…one story at a time. Education is the key engine towards positive social change in our community,” he stated.
Absa Bank has maintained a long-standing relationship with the school, having previously contributed to various initiatives, including the establishment of a computer lab that introduced computer lessons and supporting tree planting activities.
Mohamed highlighted the direct correlation between educational resources and academic success, reinforcing the decision to invest in this initiative. “Studies have shown that there is a direct relationship between school instructional material and academic achievement,” he noted.
Last week, Absa also announced the launch of the AKF, which focuses on four key programmatic pillars: entrepreneurship, education and skills, natural resource management, and health and humanitarian relief. Through the education and skills pillar, the Foundation aims to impact 1 million young people, support 50,000 youth through the Absa Fellowship Program, and award 500 scolarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
This initiative underscores Absa’s commitment to fostering educational opportunities and empowering the next generation in Kenya.