Student Programme
FAQ
Do you have KOP questions you wish you’d had answered? Let us know and we’ll include them here.
How do I set up a new KOP group at my university?
Check out our list of KOP university groups. We're always happy to hear from students who would like to set up KOP groups so if your uni isn't on there get in touch. We can work with you on initial recruitment to ensure there is enough demand at your institution, if so we'll help you with recruitment (September-October) and support you in setting up a new KOP team.
What can I expect from the Student Programme?
There are more details on the Student Programme pages but why not check out our youtube channel? It has lots of videos from the projects, staff and students alike which will give you a better insight into what to expect.
When is the Student Programme?
Recruitment begins with the new university terms around September. Over the next few months you'll be expected to meet regularly with your group and raise funds for your target. The trip itself takes place from June until September and each lasts 2 weeks. Students will arrive in Kisumu on the first Sunday evening of their trip and depart on a Saturday morning. Remember not to book any flights until you've spoken to your group leader and they've confirmed details with us.
£800 sounds like a lot, what's the best way to fundraise?
Initially people can be put off by the fundraising target but we consistently find that people smash through it and raise a lot more. We're putting together a fundraising pack and you can find suggestions on page 9 of the student intro pack. Simple ideas like bagpacks (target more luxurious supermarkets for better tips!) and non-uniform days at your old primary school can work really well. Approaching businesses for donations can often help you shave a few hundred pounds off your target. The most succesful fundraising events are often the ones which are most creative. Instead of organising a pub quiz or club night, why not think about how to put a different spin on the event. One student from Nottingham raised most of her money by dressing up as a banana for 72 hours - the possibilities are endless! Watch our fundraising video for some more inspiration. Remember if you're struggling, don't do so in silence. Get in touch, we've seen hundreds of students fundraise for us over the years and have lots of advice to share!
When should I send you the fundraising money I receive?
All money raised for the Student Programme should be paid into the KOP account as and when the funds are raised throughout the year. If you can send any funds you raise before the 1st June it helps greatly with planning support to project partners and we strongly encourage you to send us the money by that date. If you expect to receive money from events that will take place after this time, please let us know before the 1st June so that the student coordinator can make appropriate provision.
What vaccinations do I need for travelling to Kisumu?
You can see the latest advice on vaccinations and malaria medication on page 6 of the student intro pack.
What should I pack?
There is a pack list in the student welcome pack which comes out in April. In fact, if you read over the intro pack and the welcome pack properly, you'll probably find most of the answers to your questions in there!
Do I need to take anything for the children at the projects?
There is definitely no expectation on you to bring extra items for the children with you. KOP know how much hard work you'll have put into fundraising by the time you get out to Kisumu. Having said that, putting a bit of thought into activities to do with the children can make the world of difference to your experience with them. In the past successful items brought by students included; arts and crafts materials, bubbles, skipping ropes (a long length of rope which can be divided between a few groups is ideal), footballs, a parachute (great for getting everyone involved with group games), books, educational posters (to brighten the centres), sock puppet materials, facepaints and chalk. Some universities have also co-ordinated donations of clothes and other essentials from friends and family before heading out to Kisumu. Again, there is no expectation on you to do this but if you think it's something you might like to get invovled with, ask your group leader or get in touch with us in the office.
I've read the intro pack and looked on the website but I still have a question...
At KOP, we pride ourselves on being a personable charity that always has time to speak to our student volunteers. If your question hasn't been answered in the available resources (and please do check first) then we're always happy to hear from you. Check out our contacts page for details.
