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The school is located in the slum area of Kibera in Nairobi (reported to be the largest slum in SSA). It was started as a community school to help raise education/literacy levels in the slum as many families struggled to take their children to school let alone put food on the table. A small piece of land was identified and whose owners agreed to sell to the school promoters (subject to being used for a community school). It began with a handful of students with iron-sheet structures and volunteer teachers as the promoters could not afford salaries (parents could not afford fees). Over time, the student numbers increased enabling the promoters to afford a couple of teachers and Govt posted a few. Visiting
charities and philanthropic groups have helped the school along the way. Some helping with student desks. Others began a classroom block now in brick & mortar (structures are done but finishes remain undone).
The school was brought to the attention of the club by a member who grew up in the area and was grateful to have attended school up to university level. The Rotarian once helped the school as an unpaid teacher/tutor as part of his contribution to the community (and also an example to the students).
The school faces several challenges that the leadership is actively working to address. The new library and other facilities will help create a more conducive learning environment. However, the classrooms still need additional desks and chairs. Additionally, the benefactor who contributed to the establishment of the lab did not complete all the necessary work. As a mixed school, the restrooms require improvement, especially considering that there is no sewage system in the entire area. Furthermore, the current classrooms need to be finished, as they lack windows and ceiling boards. We remain positive that, in partnership with our fellow Rotarians and other supporters, we will overcome these challenges.
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