Garissa:Learners at the Garissa School for the Deaf are poised to benefit from enhanced educational facilities due to the launch of a Sh12.7 million infrastructure project. This initiative, funded by Airtel Money Kenya through the Airtel Africa Foundation in partnership with ChildFund Kenya, aims to improve learning and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities, alongside increasing access to digital learning opportunities.
According to Kenya News Agency, the project is part of the Building Brighter Futures initiative, which supports inclusive education by constructing four new classrooms to accommodate the school’s growing student population. It also includes the development of an ICT center to help learners acquire digital skills and access new learning opportunities, as well as the enhancement of water and sanitation infrastructure.
The planned facilities will feature modern ablution blocks with separate toilet and bathroom facilities for boys and girls, an extension of the water pipeline to boost water access, an elevated water tank tower with a 20,000-litre storage capacity, a 20-point handwashing station, and a separate two-door sanitation facility for teachers.
Bonke Michael, Airtel Money Kenya’s Acting Managing Director, emphasized the project’s focus on creating a safe and inclusive learning environment, stating, “Our commitment with this project goes beyond infrastructure; it is about creating a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow and pursue their dreams.”
This Garissa project is part of the larger Sh62 million Building Brighter Futures initiative, which will benefit over 2,000 learners across four public schools in Baringo, Garissa, and Wajir counties. The initiative commenced in Baringo County with a Sh37 million allocation for improving infrastructure at Marigat Integrated Day and Boarding Primary School and Marigat Special School for the Visually Impaired.
Fatuma Omar, Curriculum Support Officer for Special Needs Education in Garissa County, highlighted the importance of the initiative in creating opportunities and promoting inclusion for Kenyan learners. She noted that a conducive learning environment is crucial for effective curriculum implementation.
This initiative underscores the shared commitment of Airtel Money Kenya, through the Airtel Africa Foundation, and ChildFund Kenya in advancing inclusive education and providing essential learning infrastructure. By investing in facilities that cater to diverse needs, especially for those living with disabilities, the partners aim to foster environments where every child can learn, build confidence, and work towards a brighter future.
