REF: EB/NL/43/23-24 DATE: 5th March 2024
Empowering Futures: A Closer Look at the Africa Federation Education Board’s Vision and Initiatives
The Africa Federation Education Board (EB) is on a transformative journey under the leadership of Br. Mohammed Kazim Sheriff. The board envisions a future where higher education is not only accessible but also accompanied by proper career guidance and financial support for students. In pursuit of this vision, the Education Board has undergone significant changes, particularly in the loan structure, aiming to assist students pursuing undergraduate studies and beyond.
Introduction of new loan structure
In a landmark decision during the Supreme Council meeting in 2022, the Africa Federation increased the loan amount for undergraduate studies from $8000 to $10,000. The Education Board has introduced new loan structures to cater to a diverse range of educational paths:
- International Studies Bachelor’s degree: $10,000 per year (max 4 years)
- International Post Graduate Studies: $15,000 per year (max 2 years)
- College route (International): $6000 per year (max 2 years)
- Local Postgraduate for Medical Studies: $8000 (max 3 years)
- Online degrees & Diplomas: $4000 (max 3 years)
Different Family Loans & Grants
The Education Board (EB) manages a range of donor family funds providing higher education loans to students in their educational pursuits. Donor Family Funds administered by the Education Board:
- Haji Mohammed Khaki Education Loan Scheme
- Haji Gulamhussein Abdulrasool Somji Family Higher Education Loan
- Late Abdulhussein & Zainab Bhaloo Education Fund
- Late Mehboob Fidahussein Fazal Education Fund
- Fazal Rawji Funds
- Hiridjee Loan Program
- Late Asgerali Nazarali Educational Funds
- Mainstay Education Fund
- Lady Fatimah Trust
One major addition to this lineup is the Jaffer Family of New York Grant, which was recently announced. This scholarship is divided into two categories; the first is for female students who want to pursue a medical degree at their local university. Additionally, three applications have already been approved, demonstrating the initiative’s practical effect on community students. The second category of this scholarship focuses on two female students aiming to pursue careers in STEM-related fields in the United States. This grant is presently accepting applications, giving additional chances for ambitious students to pursue their educational and professional goals.
Career Guidance
The Education Board takes a holistic approach to student support by offering career guidance counseling through both Zoom and in-person sessions. This personalized counseling aims to assist students in making informed decisions about their academic and professional paths, ensuring they are well-equipped for success. To further enhance career guidance, the EB administers the Strong Interest Inventory, a psychometric test conducted by certified professionals. This tool provides valuable insights into individuals’ interests and preferences, assisting in identifying suitable career paths and educational pursuits.
During the supreme council meeting in Kampala in November 2023, the Education Board took a proactive step by administering the Strong Interest Inventory Assessment to 20 students from Kampala. This initiative not only provided them with valuable insights through the psychometric test but also offered personalized career counseling based on the results. The Education Board continues to enhance its career guidance efforts; ensuring students are well-prepared and equipped for success in their chosen paths.
Sustainable Repayment plans
Acknowledging the challenges posed by erratic repayments, the EB is actively exploring sustainable repayment plans. This initiative aims to create a system that ensures the financial health of the board while also considering the financial well-being of the loan recipients.
Building connections
The Education Board (EB) is working closely with representatives from Middlesex University in Mauritius and Asia Pacific University in Malaysia. Together with Brother Mazaher Kassam, the Education Board is in active discussions to create opportunities for community students. These collaborations aim to open up new educational pathways and enhance the learning experiences available to students in these regions.
Get Involved: Your Inquiries Matter
As the Africa Federation Education Board continues its journey towards empowering futures, your engagement is crucial. For any inquiries, questions, or further information, please contact us at education@africafederation.org. Your feedback is not only welcome but also vital to our commitment to advancing education and empowering futures.
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Secretariat
Africa Federation Education Board