Education · Central Kenya
SAM Elimu
Mentorship, sponsorship, and pathways to success for high-achieving, economically disadvantaged students in Kenya.
Partner Since 2014 · Central Kenya
Education as a pathway out of poverty
SAM Elimu was founded by our good friend Peter Linneman and provides educational opportunities and mentorship to impoverished children in central Kenya. Their holistic approach provides the structure and support necessary for students to succeed.
Aside from school fee sponsorship, the organization provides an array of resources including mentorship programs, support groups, tutoring, career counseling, and internships — everything a student needs not just to attend school, but to thrive after it.
University graduates in the workforce
Of Kenyan kids attend secondary school
Scholarships
granted
Gen SAM Elimu students are first in their families to attend secondary school
Our Work
Sponsorship, retreats, and a foundation for the future
March to the Top has supported SAM Elimu through school fee sponsorship and participation in annual counseling retreats. Each year, New Hope-AINA students participate in the SAM Elimu secondary school academic retreat.
Students spend three days reviewing coursework for the upcoming school term, identifying goals, and defining pathways to success. They take part in CV writing and mentorship sessions that will provide the foundation for job-seeking in the near future.
What SAM Elimu Provides
A holistic model for student success
School Fee Sponsorship
Removing the financial barrier that keeps high-achieving students from continuing their education.
Mentorship Programs
One-on-one and group mentorship connecting students with experienced guides and role models.
Academic Support
Tutoring, support groups, and academic retreats to strengthen coursework and study skills.
Career Counseling
CV writing workshops, career counseling, and guidance on pathways into the workforce.
Internships
Practical work experience to help students enter Kenya’s competitive job market with confidence.
Tertiary Pathways
Continued support and follow-up to help students progress from secondary into university or vocational training.
Why It Matters
Only 26% of Kenyan children reach secondary school
SAM Elimu identifies high-achieving, but economically disadvantaged, primary school students and provides them the resources to continue into secondary and tertiary education. The counseling, resources, follow-up, and guidance provided by SAM Elimu staff exponentially increase the probability of graduation.
In a country with rising youth unemployment, SAM Elimu grants aspiring applicants the skills and fortitude necessary for success — and March to the Top is proud to help make that possible.
“
Nine-tenths of education is encouragement.
— Anatole France
Support SAM Elimu students
100% of your donation reaches the students and families of SAM Elimu. The March Family covers all overhead costs.