'University expands my thinking capacity'

Walking though the corridors of United States International University - Africa, in Nairobi, Kenya, 18-year old Jacaranda graduate Chikondi Phiri reflects on her first month living on campus and starting her studies: “University is a great experience which everyone wishes to have. University expands my thinking capacity. I have just started a 5-year Bachelor degree in Pharmacy - and everyone respects these studies here. I know I will make it and fulfill my dreams. I never thought I would have this chance. Thank you Jacaranda School for giving me a free quality education - and the opportunity to grow and then apply to MasterCard Foundation college scholarships.”

Chikondi is one of six Jacaranda graduates currently studying Bachelor degrees in international universities in Africa (in Kenya, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Mauritius island), sponsored by MasterCard Foundation. We also have one Jacaranda graduate in second year of College of Medicine in Lusaka, Zambia - and another graduate currently studying in a film school in Paris, France.

“Jacaranda School is a free school for orphans and we have come a long way”, says Marie Da Silva, the founder of the school. “Eighteen years ago when I started the school in my family home, I could not afford textbooks, desks or blackboard for the children. Today the school is producing students who are selected among the top students in Africa. Thank you to our head teacher Mrs Mussa, deputy head teacher Mrs Mwandira and all the teachers at Jacaranda School. Thank you to my husband Luc Deschamps who is the director of the school and works tirelessly coordinating college scholarships. I feel blessed and thankful. Thank you to all our friends around the world for supporting our mission.”

We currently also have 22 graduates studying in universities and colleges in Malawi. To help send one of our students to college or university, please click here.