It is widely acknowledged that education serves as the most potent tool for navigating the challenges of the contemporary millennium. In today’s world, the acquisition of knowledge and proficient communication skills is imperative. For Kenya, the nation’s ultimate triumph hinges upon its capacity to ensure equitable educational access for all individuals, thereby furnishing the labour market with well-qualified professionals who can contribute to the realisation of both domestic and global developmental objectives.
Nevertheless, a formidable obstacle to attaining this vision persists in the form of acute poverty plaguing several rural areas in Kenya. Despite Kenya’s persistent efforts to reform its underfunded educational system, encompassing structural and curriculum modifications, it is imperative to acknowledge that substantial challenges endure. While the government has eliminated primary and high school tuition fees, ancillary costs such as school uniforms and textbooks impose a significant financial burden on the most vulnerable families, resulting in a steady rise in dropout rates.
According to a 2010 UNESCO report, Kenya grapples with the issue of one million children and youth being out of school, alongside over 7.8 million young adults and adults who struggle with basic literacy skills. The deficiencies in educational institutions persist, characterized by inadequate teaching staff, subpar infrastructure, limited access to textbooks, and a dearth of essential learning resources. This dire situation is particularly pronounced in remote areas of Kenya.
In response to this critical challenge and in alignment with the developmental goals of both national and county governments, Lewa has undertaken a series of initiatives to bridge the chasm in the delivery of high-quality education within the region. Lewa remains steadfast in its commitment to support the following programmes: