In many developing countries schools charge tuition, posing an insurmountable obstacle to the poorest children. By providing funding for secondary school, GEF helps deserving young orphans and vulnerable children overcome this barrier and greatly increase their opportunities for a better life. Studies show that young women, in particular, reap enormous benefits from a secondary school education, ranging from increased wages, to decreased population growth, to improved family health and the increased likelihood of educating future generations.

• From 2005-2007, Global Education Fund piloted a high school scholarship program for students at the Ban Kru Noi orphanage in Bangkok, Thailand, which is now fully sustained through local Thai support.
• January 2008, GEF launched a Leadership Program in Kenya for 50 deserving young people. Applicants were selected based upon economic need, academic performance and leadership potential, with a preference given to young women and orphans. The program not only provides a secondary school education but:
  • Group meetings and retreats to develop leadership skills
  • Individual and group service activities to develop critical thinking skills, a strong community of fellow scholars and an ethic of community service