The Power of Education

These University students have been in our programs since they were in grade school

At Lelt Foundation, we believe education is the most powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty. This month, we celebrate eight inspiring Lelt scholars who have grown up in our programs since childhood and are now thriving at universities across Ethiopia. From daily meals to after-school tutoring, from counseling to scholarships, Lelt has stood beside these students for more than a decade – helping them beat the odds and transform their futures. Today, they are on paths to become nurses, engineers, economists, diplomats, and leaders – proof that with consistent support, education uplifts entire families and communities.

Habiba Seid attends Haramaya University in northeastern Ethiopia

Take Habiba, for example. She nearly gave up when Ethiopia’s National Exam pass rates plummeted, but when she learned she was among just 3.2% of students nationwide who succeeded, her achievement became a point of pride for her entire village. Now in her third year of Economics at Haramaya University, she dreams of creating opportunities for vulnerable children, just as she once received. 

Kalkidan is studying nursing at Hawassa University in southern Ethiopia

Kalkidan, who grew up aspiring to help others, is now a second-year nursing student at Hawassa University, determined to bring healing and hope. 

Since 2011, Lelt has provided more than 600,000 meals, funded thousands of scholarships, and supported 100% of high school grads to continue on to higher education

Kidist is a second year student at Haramaya University

Kidist, encouraged by her mother and empowered by Lelt’s tutoring and mentorship, quickly excelled in her coursework and is building a strong academic record at Haramaya University.

Their stories – and those of Meaza, Workineh, Tagash, and their peers – demonstrate the life-changing impact of opportunity. Since 2011, Lelt has provided more than 600,000 meals, funded thousands of scholarships, and supported 100% of our high school graduates to continue on to higher education. These eight university students represent a new generation of leaders, breaking the cycle of poverty in Ethiopia. With continued donor support, we can reach even more children with nutrition, technology, and educational opportunities – multiplying this impact across families and communities for years to come.