Mount Kenya University (MKU) and Mercy Beyond Borders (MBB) have renewed their Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), reaffirming their commitment to expanding access to higher education for young women from refugee communities. The agreement was renewed during a colorful ceremony officiated by Mount Kenya University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Deogratius JAGANYI, and Ms. Noella, Mary Nakabuye representing Mercy Beyond Borders. The renewed partnership underscores the shared commitment of Mount Kenya University and Mercy Beyond Borders to empowering vulnerable young women through education and equipping them with the skills needed to transform their communities and contribute meaningfully to society.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Prof. JAGANYI expressed gratitude to Mercy Beyond Borders for its continued confidence in the quality of education offered at MKU. He noted that the growing number of MBB-sponsored scholars choosing the university was a strong endorsement of the institution’s academic excellence and student support systems.
Ms. Noella lauded MKU for its efficient admission process, noting that 14 scholars who joined the university during the most recent intake experienced a seamless transition into their academic programmes.
She commended the university’s International Students Recruitment Office for facilitating the admission process and ensuring the students settled comfortably into university life. She revealed that 21 female scholars from refugee camps are currently pursuing various degree programmes at MKU under the Mercy Beyond Borders scholarship programme, while four beneficiaries have already graduated, demonstrating the impact of the partnership in transforming lives through education. Ms. Noella was accompanied by Mr. Nelson Omara, the programme trainer, during the signing ceremony.
Mercy Beyond Borders is an international nonprofit organization it’s Headquarter is in California, United States, with a regional office for East Africa in Kampala, Uganda. The organization is dedicated to creating opportunities for women and girls living in extreme poverty to learn, lead and connect. Its work is guided by the core values of academic excellence, personal integrity and compassionate action, grounded in the belief that educating women and girls creates lasting social transformation.
MKU’s Deputy Director for Student Resource Mobilization and International Recruitment, Mr. Daniel Kiriti, together with Ms. Judith Ayikuru, the coordinator of the Mercy Beyond Borders sponsorship programme, held a mentorship and orientation session for the 21 scholars. The students were encouraged to make the most of the scholarship opportunity as a pathway to a brighter future beyond the challenges of refugee camps and poverty. Students were advised to complement their academic qualifications by enrolling in Centre for Professional Development (CPD) professional courses offered by the university to enhance their employability after graduation.
Ms. Ayikuru reaffirmed Mercy Beyond Borders’ commitment to supporting the scholars throughout their academic journey, provided they adhere to the scholarship requirements and university regulations. She congratulated the students on their achievements and encouraged them to remain focused on their studies as they pursue their academic and professional aspirations.
