Thanks to a grant of £14,500 from Hazel’s Footprints Trust, Team Kenya has successfully completed a renovation and extension of the Learning & Resource Centre (LRC) at Twende Pamoja, Ndhiwa, Kenya. This initiative has not only expanded the school library but also introduced a cutting-edge STEM Discovery Room, significantly enriching the learning experience for students.
Empowering Students Through STEM
The newly established STEM Discovery Room has been transformed into a vibrant hub of scientific exploration. The funding allowed for the procurement of essential educational tools, including:
- Laboratory equipment such as microscopes, magnets, and test tubes to support hands-on scientific experiments.
- Engineering kits featuring electrical circuit models and building blocks, making abstract concepts more tangible.
- An interactive whiteboard that enhances lesson delivery with multimedia presentations and real-time quizzes.
- A loanable STEM equipment programme, ensuring students in partner schools can also access vital learning resources.
These improvements have significantly increased student engagement, with teachers reporting a rise in enthusiasm and participation in STEM subjects. The room has become a beacon of opportunity, equipping young minds with the tools to explore, innovate, and develop problem-solving skills.
A Library That Inspires a Love for Reading
The library at Twende Pamoja has undergone a remarkable transformation, creating a welcoming and resourceful environment for students. Enhancements include:
- A dedicated selection of books tailored for older primary and secondary school girls, focusing on themes of personal growth, resilience, and friendship.
- Mobile book boxes filled with fiction and non-fiction titles, enabling students in partner schools to develop a passion for reading.
- Regular book club activities that encourage discussions, critical thinking, and peer learning, fostering a love for literature.
- Holiday book clubs providing engaging literacy activities, including creative writing and drama sessions inspired by stories.
These initiatives have empowered students, particularly young girls, by fostering confidence and broadening their perspectives through literature. Many have expressed newfound motivation in their studies, benefiting from improved reading habits and access to a wealth of knowledge.
Sustaining the Impact
The completion of the STEM and library project is just the beginning. Looking ahead, Team Kenya is committed to ensuring the continued success and growth of these initiatives by:
- Expanding the Reading for Empowerment Programme to maintain active book clubs in 16 partner schools.
- Managing the mobile library service to provide consistent access to books for all students.
- Launching the Loanable STEM Equipment Programme, enabling hands-on learning opportunities in under-resourced schools.
- Providing ongoing teacher training to maximize the effectiveness of the new facilities.
A Lasting Legacy
This project exemplifies the power of collaboration and the profound impact that educational support can have on young learners. The joy of discovery in the STEM room, the eager discussions in the library, and the excitement of new learning opportunities all stand as testaments to the success of this initiative.
Hazel’s Footprints Trust’s contribution has left an enduring legacy in Ndhiwa, inspiring a generation of students to dream big and reach their full potential. Thank you for making this transformation possible!
