Build Skills with the "lost" Youth in Kenya

Dear Rafikis,

Our two institutions, KTTI and SVTC, have positioned themselves vigorously in the fight against global warming. Koshin established a tree nursery producing tree seedlings that are then donated to the community on National Tree Planting Day, a public holiday inaugurated last November. Kenya's concerted efforts to recreate a green environment has targeted the planting of 15 billion trees by 2032. Sergoek and Koshin have also focused on rainwater harvesting to ensure a constant water supply during the dry season in order to reduce water costs.The action of putting up gutters that collect water in large tanks was implimented by the students themselves.

KTTI students participated in the National Skills Competition, securing 2nd runners-up place in the Electrical Installation category and placing the school on the national stage. Another opportunity for national recognition happened when KTTI was chosen to host the Rift Valley regional celebration for the 100th anniversary of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Thanks to the new School Bus, the students will be able to attend more competitions, more events and create new uncharted activites.

Internally, the schools have opened Guidance and Counselling Services for their students, covering topics such as stress management, financial management, drug abuse, cohabitation, early marriages and abortion. This helps to enhance the quality of student life and to support girls and boys through their educational path.

A benchmark visit was organised with both schools to the Eldoret National Polytechnic. The visit aimed to assess progress in Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) implementation and to get familiarized with modern tools and equipment. The staff returned rejuvenated and enthusiastic about CBET delivery, particularly the assessment process from admission to final evaluations.

In Sports Competitions, KTTI has been shining in the regional men's and women's football teams. The women's team won the Regional Trophy and are the current National Football Champions. Both teams are preparing for the County Governor’s Trophy. KTTI is also the national champion in athletics women's triple jump.No small feat!

As far as our mission for Infrastructure Development, our greatest achievement this quarter is the construction of a double-story Administration Block at Sergoek vtc. The building will house a staffroom, bursar's offices, ICT lab, and the offices of the principal and deputy principal. In line with our commitment to environmental conservation, the administration block will run on solar energy, with solar panels providing electricity for the entire institution. 30% of the building has been accomplished to date. Christian R., our SG, launched the construction with the Governor, the MP, the senator, the Bishop and other community leaders. According to our projection, the administration block will be completed before the end of 2024. So stay tuned and plan your next trip to be there for the opening ceremony!

Last but not least, an important Cultural Event was hosted by Koshin featuring a variety of activities such as eating competitions, cultural dances, and catwalks that ended with the competition for Mr. and Miss Koshin! By all accounts, it was a fun-filled day providing an excellent opportunity for bonding among students, trainers and staff.

This report brings a huge source of pride and dynamism to all.

Thank you, friends, for your unfailing support and for making this possible!

Claire Mathijsen & Gabriel Teimuge

Dear Rafikis,

I have good news and novelties to report.

The largest project in size, scope and budget so faris the 2-storied Administration block for Sergeok vtc that is growing and developping fast. The increasing student intake along with expanding staff has rendered the first 2-room historic clock building obsolete.The plan is revolutionary and aims to make an architectural statement in the county and perhaps even the region. We are proud to report that my son and member Christopher who designed the very first project of the school has had a hand in this project. He worked with two architects, his long-time British trained friend Stanislas and Kenyan counterpart Brian. The plans were submitted and recently approved by the Ministry of works. Construction is slated to start in the next trimester.

Besides constructions, Sergoek vtc acquired a new bus, a joint county-community project. The bus will be shared by the two institutions we sponsor. Both schools, Koshin and Sergoek, have increased their student intake this year and can now take their projects further afield.

In the pictures below, you will see student skills in masonery and carpentry. Intensified Xtra curricular activities all around are leading to more connections and developping a sense of belonging. Sports teams have gained visibility with a handball and a basket ball team from each school qualifying for the Iten Open Tournement held at Saint Patrick's Boys school in February. The Christian Union students brought donations and spend an afternoon of games and fun at Kimumu chidren's orphanage. A developping relationship with the reputable Saint Patrick's school with Brother Colm allowed our school principals to be inspired by water management and student work study programs.

Your invaluable supoort and interest is helping these student develop a hopeful future. Thank you so much!

Claire Mathijsen