Airtel Money Kenya and ChildFund Kenya have launched a Ksh 12.7 million project to expand classrooms, improve sanitation and introduce digital learning facilities at Garissa School for the Deaf, targeting better access to inclusive education.
The project, implemented through the Airtel Africa Foundation’s Building Brighter Futures initiative, will fund four new classrooms, an information and communications technology centre, improved water supplies and new sanitation facilities for learners with disabilities.
The upgrades include a 20,000-litre water storage tank, a 20-point handwashing station and separate toilet and bathroom facilities for boys and girls, as well as additional sanitation facilities for teachers.
Airtel Money Kenya Acting Managing Director Bonke Michael says the investment was intended to provide a safer and more inclusive learning environment, while giving learners access to digital skills and wider educational opportunities.
“We believe that every child deserves access to quality education and the tools they need to realise their full potential,” says Michael.
The Garissa project forms part of a broader Ksh 62 million initiative expected to benefit more than 2,000 learners across four public schools in Baringo, Garissa and Wajir counties.
Fatuma Omar, a curriculum support officer for special needs education in Garissa County, said improved school infrastructure was essential to effective teaching and ensuring learners with disabilities could participate fully in education.
“I recognise that a conducive learning environment is essential to effective curriculum implementation and ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to reach their full potential,” says Fatuma.
The programme began in Baringo, where Ksh 37 million was allocated to improve learning and water, sanitation and hygiene facilities at Marigat Integrated Day and Boarding Primary School and Marigat Special School for the Visually Impaired.