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Islamic Relief launches classroom restoration initiative in Kilifi, Tana River counties

One of the schools in Kilifi County undergoing renovations. Photo: Farhiya Hussein.

By Farhiya Hussein | Thursday, May 30, 2024

Through its school reconstruction effort, 35 classrooms have been renovated, helping over 6,000 primary school students, with ambitions to help more schools in underserved regions of the counties.

The Islamic Relief Organisation, in collaboration with the national and county governments, is launching a major initiative to restore ageing classrooms and build new ones in public schools in Kilifi and Tana River Counties. This effort is intended to help students who have been studying in unsuitable situations, such as under trees or in poorly maintained buildings.

Through its school reconstruction effort, 35 classrooms have been renovated, helping over 6,000 primary school students, with ambitions to help more schools in underserved regions of the counties.

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Speaking to the press during a project inspection tour on Thursday, Islamic Relief Director Hassan Abdille highlighted the dire conditions under which students in some schools are learning.

“We have dedicated part of our resources to improve the educational infrastructure, as the current conditions are unacceptable," Abdille stated.

He added that the initiative would support hundreds of children by providing classrooms and desks, dining halls, and watekilifi r storage facilities through an integrated programme approach.

Mapimo Primary is one of the most affected schools, with the organisation currently renovating seven classrooms and constructing five new ones to prevent children from having to conduct classes under trees.

The school's infrastructure, including classrooms with deteriorated roofs and weak walls, has made it unsafe for learners.

Abdille revealed that many other schools are in similar conditions and that the organization is committed to working with all stakeholders to create favourable learning environments.

He emphasised the need for cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure marginalised schools are conducive to learning and improving enrollment and education standards in the region.

Mapimo Primary School headteacher Florence Omwega highlighted the school's challenges, stating, "Our school is congested, with over 80 pupils squeezed into one classroom while others are forced to learn outside."

Omwega expressed hope that the renovation and construction of new classrooms, along with the donation of desks, will significantly improve the situation.

However, she appealed for further assistance, noting that the high enrollment of learners has strained the school's resources, including toilets.

Hurara Primary School headteacher Idris Kone praised the school renovation initiative, calling it a game-changer for improving education standards in marginalised areas.

"Hurara Primary had eight classes conducted under trees, but with the construction of 15 new classrooms, a multi-purpose hall, and an underground water storage facility by Islamic Relief, the school's infrastructure has greatly improved," Kone said.

They noted the ongoing efforts towards creating a better learning environment for students in Kilifi and Tana River Counties, will ensure that education is accessible and effective for all.