January 2008 Newsletter: Bursary Scheme

Chapter 1: Number of bursaries: At least 2 bursaries every year.

Chapter 2: Bursary period: 6 years, i.e. the duration of secondary education.

Chapter 3: Funding the Bursary Scheme: For 2008 and until RSVP can use money from its general account to take over, new or existing regular donors are kindly requested to contribute towards the Bursary Scheme separately or additionally.

Such contributions, either from new or existing regular donors, will, rather than being spent on School Meals, School Books or HIV trips, SPECIFICALLY go towards the Bursary Scheme.

So, either donating as a one off or sponsoring a child for the entire 6 years of secondary education, please narrate your kind gift as "Child S."

Chapter 4: Amount of Bursary: Since school fees vary between secondary school institutions, the amount paid will depend on schools’ invoice.

But, it can be estimated that it will range between 20,000 to 50,000 RFW par term that is about £20 to £50. This covers accommodation and food (boarding schools). A Term = +/- 3 months. A school year = 3 terms.

The institutional variation depends on factors, such school owners’ subsidies or other forms of aid to the school. Generally, schools owned by the Roman Catholic Church tend to be the best, and are believed to provide better educational standards.

The latter is a huge advantage because only 3% of kids completing secondary school go to university, after yet another National Test.

More info on Bursary Scheme: Selection criteria and conditions