2011 Elimu Scholarship Recipients.

Nuru Center added four new Elimu Scholarship recipients in 2011 getting the total number of recipients to twelve for the year. Please read the profiles and stories of the 2011 recipients below:

Maureen Wairumu
Maureen Wairimu is an orphan who is living with her great-aunt. Maureen’s mother died from AIDS and she does not know who her father is. Following her mother’s death, she lived with her grandmother. Her grandmother could not afford even the basic needs for both of them to survive, so her grandmother’s sister took Maureen in. While her great-aunt has provided her a temporary home, she has no means to pay for her school fees or board. Maureen’s goal is to become a pilot. She wishes to help other orphans by eventually building an orphanage and educating children about HIV/AIDS.

Anthony Njenga
15 year old Anthony Njenga lives with his mother, who is HIV positive, and his 13 year old sister. His father passed away in 1997. He has 3 older sisters who provide no financial help to the family. The sisters have actually burdened Anthony’s mother with the care of their own children. His mother's only means of income is the sale of charcoal, which barely provides enough money for food. Anthony’s dream is to become an engineer, so that he may improve his family member’s lives.

Michael Wang'ombe
15 year old Michael Wang'ombe lives with his mother and little brother. His father, who died in 2005, was the sole financial support of the family. Since his death, Michael’s mother works a laborer in the Molo District hospital. Her income does not always cover the basic needs of the family. Their extended family severed contact when his mother asked for money. Michael has missed many meals, but has still managed to finish his primary education. Michael hopes to graduate secondary school and study computer science in University.

Jenipher Muhonja
Jenipher Muhonja has been raised by her grandparents since her father’s death in 1997. Following her father's death, Jenipher’s mother abandoned her to marry another man. She has had no contact with her. During school breaks, Jenipher has worked to help provide basic necessities for her and her grandparents. Her uncles are drug addicts and aunt is in no position to help, since she can barely provide for her own children. Jenipher’s goal is to become and doctor and help those in positions such as hers.