In 2007 two PEI high school students, Maureen Handrahan and Suzanne MacIntyre, traveled with us to Mikinduri. During their visits to some of the local schools they learned directly about the keen desire the students expressed to further their education, and the severe obstacles they face from poverty. Determined to make a difference, upon their return they initiated a fundraising program, under the MCOH banner. With the kind support of some of our other volunteers, the first 6 children were accepted into the program in January, 2008. As of 2010, we are up to 17 students attending secondary schools.
The scholarship program is intended to help needy and academically promising students complete their secondary school education, which is equivalent to high school. A local committee of teachers and village leaders screen and select the applicants and monitors their progress. Successful candidates are eligible for a four year renewable scholarship which covers all expenses related their education (e.g. tuition, room & board, uniforms and books). It costs about $500 to send a child to school for one year.