EFAC Recognized at Annual DIAR Awards

EFAC Wins “NGOs Promoting Human Rights and Sustainable Development”

EFAC Scholars with Country Director Mary Kiguru accepting the award.

The National Diversity and Inclusion Awards & Recognition (DIAR Awards), is an initiative of Daima Trust that recognizes employers, institutions, organizations, and individuals who champion Diversity, and promote Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), in the workplace and society.

EFAC was nominated in the “NGOs Promoting Human Rights and Sustainable Development”. Among a field of other worthy nominees, EFAC is proud to be named the winner in this category and recognized for the value of our model for creating change.

The theme of this year's DIAR awards: "Multiplying Positive Change Agents: Recognizing, Celebrating and Awarding Individuals and Organizations Catalysing Sustainability, Everyday Inclusion, and Socially Cohesive Workplaces and Communities in Kenya ‘For - Planet. People. Prosperity. and Posterity’," is not just timely but essential in the pursuit of a better world. EFAC's holistic approach to the education-to-employment pathway aligns with the values of diversity, equity, inclusivity, and belonging, ensuring that all EFAC Scholars have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. By addressing the educational needs of bright, disadvantaged Kenyan youth, EFAC not only contributes to individual empowerment but also lays the foundation for sustainable development and the protection of human dignity.

EFAC's "Wezesha Journey" model reflects a profound understanding of the critical role academics and personal and professional development plays in empowering individuals and transforming communities. Recognizing that education beyond Class 8 is not free in Kenya, EFAC bridges this gap for bright students who would not otherwise be able to afford to continue their education. Beyond academics, EFAC focuses on key elements of personal and professional development to ensure scholars are prepared to enter the workforce at the end of their journey. By partnering with the best boarding schools, universities, and employers, EFAC ensures that its scholars receive not only quality education but also access to a supportive and conducive learning and career development environment.

key ways EFAC actively promotes human rights and dignity:

Inclusivity and Accessibility:

EFAC selects scholars based on need, academic merit, and leadership potential, ensuring that the program reaches bright and disadvantaged youth facing socio-economic barriers to education in Kenya.

By prioritizing individuals who may not have easy access to educational opportunities, EFAC actively promotes the principle of equal access to quality education—a fundamental human right.

Gender Equality: 

According to UNESCO, the net enrolment rate for secondary education in Kenya is 47% of girls enrolled compared to 53% of boys. At the post-secondary level, the gap is even wider, with only 33% of female students enrolled compared to 67% of male students. Two-thirds of the EFAC incoming class each year are girls, a deliberate parameter that helps bridge gender inequality problem.

Empowering Disadvantaged Youth for Personal Growth:

EFAC goes beyond the conventional boundaries of education by providing a continuum of support and development opportunities. Personal growth and leadership development, career preparation, planning guidance, and mental health and wellness services are integral components of the program. This holistic approach prepares EFAC scholars not just for academic success but for life, nurturing well-rounded individuals who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to society.

Our model includes Health and Wellness interventions. According to a report released in September 2022 by the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), over two-fifths (44.3%) of adolescents in Kenya (sampling students in primary and secondary school) had a mental health problem in the past 12 months before the report. EFAC ensures that its scholars have access to mental health support and education on critical wellness practices in a safe space so they can focus on the future and build a toolkit for navigating personal challenges.

Education as a Catalyst for Rights:

EFAC views education as a powerful catalyst for change and social progress. By investing in the education of disadvantaged youth, EFAC is contributing to the fulfilment of their right to quality education—a right recognized by international human rights frameworks.

Fostering Leadership:

Leadership development is a core component of EFAC's program. By nurturing leadership potential in its scholars, EFAC is not only preparing individuals for successful careers but also fostering a generation of leaders who can advocate for and uphold human rights in their communities. Our 2023 report indicates that 211 active EFAC scholars took o leadership roles in their schools/institutions last year. Submitted positions included: school captain, prefect, club leaders, scouts, leaders in sports, etc.

Creating Economic Opportunity:

Through its education-to-employment pathway, EFAC is contributing to Goal 8 of the SDGs—Decent Work and Economic Growth. By equipping scholars with the skills and knowledge needed for employment, EFAC is promoting economic opportunities that are essential for human dignity and well-being.

Contributing to Sustainable Development:

EFAC's impact extends beyond education, encompassing the realms of economic opportunity and social progress. Through its robust education-to-employment program, EFAC not only empowers individual scholars but also contributes to the development of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. This, in turn, catalyzes economic growth and fosters sustainable development within the Kenyan context.

EFAC's mission and activities strongly resonate with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequality). By providing a comprehensive education-to-employment program, EFAC is actively contributing to the realization of these global goals, thereby making a significant impact on Kenya's journey towards sustainable development.

EFAC's model actively addresses Goal 10 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which focuses on reducing inequality. By providing opportunities for education as a pathway to economic stability to those who face socio-economic challenges, EFAC contributes to creating a more equal society.

In summary, and in tandem with the ethos promoted by the DIAR Awards through this year’s theme, EFAC's holistic and inclusive education-to-employment program actively promotes human rights and dignity by addressing the root causes of inequality and providing disadvantaged youth with the tools they need to lead fulfilling lives and contribute meaningfully to society. At the key of a brighter future is education; at EFAC, we are just playing a small part, hoping it creates a ripple effect to make a big difference.