Build Skills with the "lost" Youth in Kenya

Dear Rafikis,

First, a word about how the National Emergency in Kenya has impacted the country. In contrast to the alarmist predictions of how the African continent would fare in the face of this pandemic, the results in containing the virus in Kenya have been impressive so far. Though job losses and setbacks increased, the government introduced tax reliefs and health care funds amongst other adjustments. The Kenyan people took the full lockdown extremely seriously. To date, 63 lives were claimed by COVID-19.

Many Kenyans, unlike citizens in industrialized countries, have the ability to return to their rural homes and to switch from city jobs to rural labour for food. So far, so good.

Institutions of higher learning were closed indefinitely on March 20, 2020. Public servants were limited to 4 people in face to face meetings. Webex and Zoom Apps served the administration of the schools and allowed Board member meetings. However, these platforms have not been put to use for virtual learning at this point. In view of the full operational closure of the schools, both of our institutions have nevertheless remained impressively active.

 *Biodigester: a type of sceptic tank, but unlike a tradutional sceptic tank, this new technology allows solid waste to be eaten by microorganisms and provides reusable water for gardening

Dear Friends of Rafiki,

School 1: Sergoek vtc (vocational training center) is expanding and has a brand new, still unpainted, fresh new gate. The watchman now has his own house, a safe and warm place intergrated in the front gate. See picture.

Registration at the school is ongoing. The academic year in Kenya starts with the calendar year which means that the December graduates are just starting to register for their next course of study. The school organizes 2 registration periods, one in January and one in May.

Last year, the 1st and 2nd year students together totalled 602 applicants. The Principal is hoping for the same numbers or more for this year.

School 2: Koshin tti (technical training institute) is also planning for a new gate which will give visibility and status to this impressive campus. See design.

Registration here is at 390 students this year, up by a third from last year when the total number of students reached 300. Sports activities have gained in practice, teams are getting organized so that they can start intercollegiate games. The school is eager to establish itself as having strong athletes.

Another distinction student emerged from last year's pool of graduates, making the school proud of it's Information Science department, once again.

The 2 new workshops at the back of the campus are ready to be handed over this month and will beecome operational in the course of the next few months.

More news after my forthcoming February trip and Board meetings! With much gratitude for all of you for your continued support that offers a productive future to these young people.

Claire