- Scholarship value: KSh 150,000 per student per academic year
- A laptop computer for each student
- Total scholarship cost: KSh 19.9 million (28 students)
- The Trust surpasses 1,100 total beneficiaries across all education levels since inception
Bomet, Kenya – 14 August 2025. In a bold show of commitment to education and youth empowerment, 28 academically gifted but financially disadvantaged students from Bomet and Kericho counties have been awarded full undergraduate scholarships through the Finlays Community Trust during a colourful ceremony at Fair Hills Hotel, Bomet County.
Of these scholarships, 22 were awarded to top-performing students—two from each constituency across both counties—while six were granted to dependents of our employees, underscoring our deep-rooted commitment to uplifting education within our own community.
Each scholarship, valued at KSh 150,000 per year, represents a total investment of KSh 19.9 million, covering tuition at approved public Kenyan universities and including a laptop to enhance digital learning essential in today’s economy.
Chairperson Bishop Alfred Rotich praised the students and reiterated the Trust’s mission:
“Education is the catalyst that transforms potential into progress. By investing in our youth, we are shaping a future where opportunity is not determined by background, but by talent and determination. Since inception, our scholarship program has touched the lives of more than 1,100 students, laying the groundwork for a more equitable and prosperous society.”
Since inception, the Trust’s scholarship program has transformed over 1,147 lives, spanning 586 secondary school students, 80 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students, 456 undergraduate students and 25 postgraduate students.
In a speech delivered on her behalf by Prof. Eric Koech, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kabianga, Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, Principal Secretary, State Department for Higher Education and Research, commended the company for its significant contribution to advancing Kenya’s education goals:
“The government is committed to expanding access to quality higher education, but this mission cannot be achieved in isolation. We commend the Finlays Community Trust for complementing our efforts by ensuring that bright, needy students can access university education. Partnerships like these accelerate our shared vision of a knowledge-driven, inclusive economy,” she said.
Beyond awarding scholarships, the Trust is transforming education from the ground up. To date, we have channelled over Ksh 317 million into 79 education infrastructure projects in Bomet and Kericho counties. These investments have brought to life a fully equipped secondary school, state-of-the-art TVET workshops, modern classrooms, well-stocked libraries, science laboratories, safe dormitories, and spacious dining halls—spaces where young minds can thrive.
Our work goes beyond bricks and mortar. Through a vibrant mentorship programme, we have walked alongside more than 11,000 learners in 11 schools, nurturing their confidence, sharpening their life skills, and inspiring them to aim higher. The impact is clear: stronger academic results, improved discipline, and a generation more determined than ever to succeed.
In July 2025, the Trust expanded its footprint by awarding 40 TVET scholarships at Belgut and Konoin Technical Training Institutes, enabling students to pursue in-demand skills in Automotive Engineering, Building & Construction, Electrical Installation, and Plumbing Technology.
ENDS
About the Finlays Community Trust
The Finlays Community Trust is an independent charity funded by Browns Plantations Kenya (80%) and Finlays Tea Extracts Kenya. It delivers maximum social, environmental, and economic benefits through collaborative projects in education, water, environmental conservation, and community empowerment in Bomet and Kericho counties.
About Browns Plantations Kenya
Browns Plantations Kenya is a leading tea producer and exporter managing over 5,000 hectares of tea and 2,000 hectares of forestry in Bomet and Kericho. The company is part of the Browns Group, under LOLC Holdings PLC, one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most profitable listed corporations. Sustainability, community empowerment, diversity, and child protection are central to its operations.
Media Contact:
Zackayo Ochieng Owino
Communications Officer, Browns Plantations Kenya
Email: zackayo.ochieng@brownsplantations.co.ke
Phone: +254 796 438 556
For Information: Website: www.finlayscommunitytrust.co.ke
