By Grace Murika | Country Director - WISER Kenya
When COVID 19 struck in 2020, the impact of the pandemic on the Kenya Education system was immense. On March 15, 2020, the Kenyan government announced the closure of all schools and colleges nationwide. The closure of institutions affected learners and teachers. Among those affected are the 52 girls who will be sitting for their final secondary exams, Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in October/November this year. The COVID 19 escalated the economic and social challenges among the underserved communities and they were not exempted. These girls had to contend with the interruption and loss of learning, financial constraints on their families, sexual exploitation and lack of basic needs. Moreover, the girls had to wait longer to sit for their final primary school exams, Kenya Certificate of Education (KCPE) leading to increased anxiety and stress. During this period, the girls were also affected by the learning gap as they were excluded from online education due to lack of accessibility to the internet and reliable electricity.
When schools finally opened, the pressure of curriculum coverage saw the government introduce an accelerated program that meant that the students had shortened holidays and increased workload. The 52 girls were among the first students to adjust to a “new normal”, wearing masks, social distancing and an accelerated academic schedule. They will be the first among the first students to complete a 4-year program in 3 and a half years.
Despite all these challenges, the girls were able to settle easily for WISER is more than a school. Its holistic model ensures access, provision of opportunities and resources required to break cycles of poverty and inequality. One of the girls, Sylivia who is among the 52 girls stated, “To me WISER signifies excellence. Sharon on the other hand asserted, “WISER gives an opportunity to be a game-changer of my family. I am closer to achieving my goals at WISER than before”. The girls have enjoyed a safe and conducive environment that have led to them growing and thriving. The mental health component embedded in the school program has ensured that they are supported to cope with the impact of COVID 19. They have excelled in both their academic and extra-curricular activities. We applaud the girls’ resilience and determination. Against all odds they have conquered, never giving up!
Consequently, a new cohort of 52 girls will be graduating at the end of the year, joining the growing network of the largest number of educated women in a rural community. The education support you have provided has opened new opportunities for them, equipping them with skills to advance their careers and transform their lives and that of their families. You are part of their success. You have contributed to their resilience, determination and a bright future. Thank you!
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