Frequently Asked Questions
Does EFAC provide aid other than scholarships?
No. EFAC is strictly focused on scholarship aid and related school expenses. While we see great needs for improving school infrastructure, libraries, and teacher training, we see scholarships as the key stone in the bridge to third world education.
Why not provide scholarships in the United States?
While scholarship aid is valuable in any country, we are fortunate in the United States to be able to have publicly funded K through 12 education for all children. EFAC has chosen to concentrate in countries where the government lacks the funds necessary to provide free public education and where family incomes are insufficient to pay tuition. When a year of high school costs one to two years gross family income, education without scholarship aid is impossible.
How does EFAC qualify the students?
All scholarship recipients will submit teacher and administrative recommendations, school reports and statements of need to a local partner who interviews the potential candidates' and submits the most promising candidate's credentials to Africa Nazarene University. EFAC and ANU then rank and choose the candidates to receive scholarships.
Why Kenya?
Kenya is a country of people who have illustrated a deep conviction
that education is the key to breaking their cycle of poverty. In 2003,
when free primary education was first made available to Kenyans, 1.2
million additional children flooded the Kenyan primary schools. Kenya
has shown a commitment to the education of its citizens but cannot
shoulder the financial burden without our help.
Is EFAC considering other countries?
No. Not at this time. There is still so much to do in Kenya.
Will I be able to communicate with my student?
Certainly. You are encouraged to communicate with your student. One of our goals is to help build a cultural bridge between our two citizen groups. You will receive periodic letters and progress reports from your student. Your student will want to hear from you.
Can I still sponsor an individual if I don't donate $800 annually?
Absolutely. We can put you in a scholarship group of like-minded donors
for as little as $7 a month.
How do I know my money is being spent wisely?
Your scholarship money will be sent directly to the recipient's school. Your money will pay their tuition. All school related expenses (uniforms, books, etc.) will be deposited in the student account and dispersed when needed.
What if I want to stop funding a scholarship before the four years are up?
We encourage donors to make a four year funding commitment. If, for some reason, you or your group desire to discontinue funding a scholarship we request as much advance notice as possible so we can attempt to match the student with a new donor or make arrangements to cover the balance of the scholarship out of general funds.
What if my student does not perform as expected?
We screen our students very carefully but there is always the chance that the student may fail. We offer remedial assistance but if the student continues to perform poorly, we can match you with another student if you desire.
Are there ongoing conditions that must be met for continued scholarship funding to a student — grade level, attendance, etc?
Yes. Each student will be aware of what is expected of him/her and understand that continued scholarship aid is contingent on performance. The students know that scholarship aid is a privilege, not a right.