The Green Belt Movement, Rockefeller Foundation and the Kenya Community Development Foundation have instituted a scholarship scheme to empower African women between the ages of 18 and 25.
The initiative known as Wangari Maathai Scholarship Fund seeks to encourage and promote a youth-led sustainable development agenda that is grounded in values.
A statement made available to our correspondent on Friday after the inauguration of the scheme in Nairobi, Kenya stated that the Wangari Maathai scholarship fund would be awarded annually, with the first cycle being granted during the 2013 academic year.
“The scholarship fund will support young women aged between 18 and 25 years, who have promoted positive values, demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication in environmental conservation,” the statement added.
It quoted the Director, International Affairs at the Green Belt Movement Mrs. Wanjira Mathai, as saying that, “There is no greater gift than that of a good education. Giving young women the opportunity to realise their full potential enables them to transform their lives, that of their families and ultimately the living standards of their communities.’’