Our Kijana Global Innovation School fuses a holistic vision of education to specific learning activities that connect learners to the larger global society which we inhabit and share.
Students are inspired and nurtured to fulfill their potentials and are prepared to advance to the next stage academically with confidence, global understanding, and the individual and collaborative skills to compete and contribute in a challenging and engaging world. Kijana’s developing world class institution is also a venue for international collaboration as educators and students from other countries, including the United States, are invited to visit, learn, and share in a beautiful and culturally interactive environment.
Table of Contents
Academics
Students learn to be engaged global citizens. Students interact directly with their peers in other countries and are taught global challenges and develop skills in analysis and problem-solving in order to be life-long global citizens. Students at the Kijana Global Innovation School learn how to overcome challenges both individually and collectively.
Our Team
A school’s teachers are the heart and soul of the educational and personal relationship to learning for students. We have carefully selected a team of dedicated, experienced, innovative, and personable professionals for our teaching staff.
Our teaching staff is complemented by a small team of staff members, who assist is creating a comfortable, safe, and structured environment for learning. Additional non-teaching staff members include a secretary, cook, cleaner, and driver.
Our team of caring professionals is dedicated to providing an enjoyable, yet energetic learning experience for our youths.
Meet the Team
Leadership
Ebby Shiroya – Project Manager, Director & on-the-ground School Developer
Our school has not come together on its own. The central on the ground person, among many, who has orchestrated the rise of the school bringing together material and construction skill with staffing is Ebby Shiroya. An experienced Kenyan entrepreneur, she orders the materials, inventories them, finds and manages the construction workers, provides oversight to school management and collaborates with many key players to ensure that the Kijana Global Innovation School develops physically and runs smoothly.
Her many years of experience as a self-made entrepreneur have proved invaluable to us as the school develops. She has owned and managed a bar and restaurant, taxi and tuk-tuk businesses, and two boutiques and continues to have a hand in the boutique business. In addition to overseeing school developments, she is a farmer of bamboo, trees, and numerous vegetables, as well as a real estate developer in Sabatia-Butere.
Having travelled widely in Africa, Asia, Europe and North America including Uganda, Congo, Eritrea, China, India, Thailand, Dubai, the Netherlands, France, Belgium and the United States, she brings a breath of cross-cultural knowledge and experience. She serves as a model for our investment in and collaboration with local citizens and recognition of the power of youthful entrepreneurs of Africa. We anticipate that our Kijana Global Innovation School students will develop powerful collaborative skills for successful entrepreneurial ventures of the future.
Jeremiah Awori – Chief Architect
Kijana is fortunate to have a talented and energetic local team. One of our most valuable long-term team members is our multi-talented architect and project contractor, Mr. Jeremiah Awori. Mr. Awori is an example of the unique grass-roots connections that Kijana President James P. Cummings has developed over decades and the human impact of our small-scale investments. We discovered Mr. Awori in 2009, when he was teaching at Mwituha, the school we built in partnership with the local Mwituha community. Mr. Awori, a trained architect, had been jobless for close to a decade, prior to teaching at Mwituha. He had been living and farming at his home. The restoration of Mwituha, opened up several local teaching positions. He obtained one of these and during a visit to the community in 2009, James Cummings and Kijana Vice-President, Bruce Huber met Mr. Awori. A connection was immediately developed as Bruce Huber and Jeremiah Awori collaborated to design the Mwituha Library/Amphitheater, which we then proceeded to build. Mr. Awori additionally served as the chief architect and contractor for the library and amphitheater we built at Lwanda, in Nyanza Province (2014-2015).
Our joint global effort is evident in our new Kijana Global Innovation School as Bruce Huber created the overall design of the site plan and Jeremiah Awori has again served as our local architect and contractor. Jeremiah’s knowledge of construction, and design and his ability to implement the relatively unique designs of Bruce Huber make for a powerful inter-global team.
The construction and development of Mwituha has provided for human and economic progress in multitudes of ways, many of which we do not exactly know. Jeremiah Awori is one example of a highly talented individual, who through Kijana’s local investments and explorations, has found avenues for personal development. After some years at Mwituha, Mr. Awori obtained a position at a local polytechnic school, where he now also serves as Principal. After visiting Florida in the spring of 2019, as a Kijana Global Ambassador, and visiting local schools, including a tech school in South Florida, he applied for a grant from his county and was awarded $30,000 worth of tech machinery. Mr. Awori, a local Renaissance Man (architect, farmer, teacher) is now in a highly stable position and sharing his skills and talents with others, multiplying the impact.
Our Kijana Global Innovation School, incorporates a one-of-a-kind design. Jeremiah Awori is the key person on the ground, who has made this happen. It will be a significant legacy. We anticipate much more work in the future. Jeremiah Awori and KIjana have only just begun.
Administrators
Geoffrey Otieno Angila was born in 1975 in Kamgan Village, Kisumu County. He is the second born in a family that includes 9 children. In 1990, Geoffrey sat for and passed his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exam and became employed at Ringa Boys High School in Homa Bay County. In 1994, he passed his Kenya Certificate Secondary Education (KCSE) exam. In 1996, he decided to pursue a volunteer teaching position at Obingo Primary School in Kisumu County. Geoffrey’s efforts as a volunteer teacher led to full-time teaching opportunities from 1996-2006 at Kapsorok Primary School, Kamakowa Academy and Salem Academy. He was promoted to Deputy Head Teacher of Salem Academy and served in that role from 2006 and 2009.
Following the 2009 school year, Geoffrey was hired at Temudo School, in Kisumu County. There, he served as the school chaplain, librarian and music teacher. His leadership helped shape a successful music team that achieved provincial level recognition. He was promoted to senior teacher in 2013, then deputy head teacher in 2014, before ultimately becoming the school’s head teacher. While employed at Temudo School, Geoffrey registered at Mission for Africa College to pursue a certificate in teaching in 2014. In 2017, he enrolled in a diploma course, and after successful completion of the course, registered with the Teachers Service Commision (TSC) of Kenya in 2017.
In 2021, Geoffrey was hired after a successful interview at Kijana Global Innovation school. Currently, he is the school’s Deputy Principal and Director of Curriculum. Geoofrey states, “I was motivated by the vision of the school, the act of kindness and the spirit of team work. I am willing to utilize my expertise in the field to uplift the standards of the school.”
Naman Anjichi is a retired high school teacher in Kenya and a board member of Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative. He was born in 1954 in Emakunda Village, in Ebusikhale Sub location, Luanda Township location, in Vihiga County in Western Kenya. He has a family of 9 which comprises his 5 children and 2 fosters from his late brother. He is a left-handed, jovial and witty man with a generous heart of helping the needy in society. He is a rare breed of a listening and caring leader.
He joined Mumboha Primary in 1962 and graduated from the school in 1969. He then joined Emusire High School from 1970 to 1973 for his O level education. While at Emusire High School, he would walk a distance of 10 kilometers in order to get to school daily. He later joined Kericho High School in 1974 and graduated in 1975 at the top of the class. He joined the University of Nairobi in 1977 and graduated in 1980 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education Science (Honors – Upper Division).
Mr. Anjichi spent his teaching career as a teacher of two of his favorite subjects; Biology and Chemistry. He was motivated by the desire to alleviate illiteracy in society. He started his career at Chesamisi high school, where he taught from 1980 from September to November. He then moved to Butere Girls High School where he taught from November 1980 to December 1993. He says that this school shaped him as a teacher because it not only had set high academic performance standards in the country, but it was multicultural; composed of teachers from various countries and across different ethnic communities in Kenya. He was then promoted to serve as Deputy Principal at St. Anne’s Nzoia School from January 1993 to February 1994. He then moved to Likuyani Secondary School from March 1994 to February 1998.
He finally served at Ebusiloli Secondary School as the Principal from March 1998 to October 2015. Mr. James P. Cummings, the K.E.E.I president nicknamed him after the longest serving U.S president Mr. Franklin Delanor Roosevelt. During his time at Ebusiloli, his name reverberated across Vihiga County for his exemplary leadership and networking skills that transformed Ebusiloli Secondary School. He improved the school mean score from below average to above average, increased student enrollment from 70 to over 700 and purchased a bus for the school. In addition, Anjichi purchased extra land for the school, increased classrooms from 4 to 12, constructed a library and computer laboratory and increased the number of students joining universities from the school.
While teaching at Ebusiloli Secondary school, Anjichi met Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative President Mr. James P. Cummings (Jim) who had taught at the same school in the 1990s before going back to the U.S.A. Anjichi recalls that Jim tremendously helped change the infrastructure of the school. Through the organization, Jim constructed a science laboratory and a modern teachers’ house. He constructed walkways throughout the school and painted the classrooms. He also donated valuable textbooks to the school, installed solar panels and carpeted the school lawns. Furthermore, Jim paid school fees to bright needy students from the school; a majority of whom joined different universities across Kenya. He hired and paid salaries for teachers at the school, in order to curb the staff shortage. He also facilitated cultural exchange programs between Kenyan and American students.
Anjichi vied for Member of County Assembly for Luanda Township ward in 2017 and emerged as third out of nine contestants, gaining vital grassroots mobilization skills. He is happy to have transformed the lives of many students during his 34 year teaching career. He is remembered for his famous quote that ‘what you will be, you are becoming.’ Long live Anjichi.
Teachers
Winnie Akinyi, a Kenyan citizen, was born in July 1995 in Kamashia village, Lusheya-Lubinu ward, Mumias sub-county, Kakamega County. She is the twelfth child of a family of fourteen children.
Her education started at Kamashia Primary School. Winnie attended the school from 2002-2009. While at Kamashia Primary School she sat for her KCPE exam and attained a mark of 287. Then, she joined Shitswitswi Secondary School from 2010-2013, where she attained a C+. While at Shitswitswi, she actively participated in netball, drama and singing. Following high school, Winnie participated in voluntary work for two months and pursued business interests for three years. Ultimately, Winnie enrolled in a Primary Teacher Education program from 2017-2019 where she scored a credit from Jerusa Teachers Training College.
Post teacher training, Winnie worked with PURSUE Organization as a volunteer from November 2019 to September 2020. She has three years teaching experience, having taught in Brighter Junior Academy and the Royal School.
Her passion for teaching and nurturing children’s talent is what motivated her to apply for a job at Kijana Global Innovation School. After a successful interview, Winnie began teaching at Kijana in 2021.
She teaches CRE, Creative Arts, English, Physical Health Education, Nutrition and Hygiene and Music. Winnie believes, “working in unity and cooperation with teachers and learners will make Kijana Global Innovation School the best school in western Kenya”.
Naomi Akonya Mwikhali was born in 1994 in Imahani village, Musoli Sub-location, Ikolomani Sub County in Kakamega County, Western Kenya. Naomi is the fifth born in a family of 8 siblings; 2 girls and 6 boys. She is married and blessed with 2 children.
Naomi started her primary education at Shitechia Primary School in 2000. She graduated from it in 2010 after scoring 283 out of a possible 500 marks. With this good performance, she joined Lirhembe Girls Secondary School in 2011, where she successfully scored a mean grade of C minus, upon her graduation in 2014.
Naomi went on to pursue her dream course of teaching when she joined St. Michael Trinity Teachers Training College in August 2015. Two years later, she graduated with a certificate in Early Childhood Development Education (E.C.D.E).
She kick-started her teaching career at Acts Learning and Development Center from January 2016 to May 2017. She transferred to Liberation Academy where she was responsible for teaching the Play Group students from June 2017 to February 2018. In early January 2019, Naomi joined Neema Asubwe Academy as a PP2 until December 2020.
Full of experience, energy and enthusiasm, Naomi landed her best prestigious opportunity at the amazing Kijana Global Innovation School after taking part in a successful interview in January 2021. She currently teaches Language and Mathematics to PP1 students.
Naomi says that she first heard about this prestigious school when Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative was assisting community members during the Covid 19 pandemic by distributing food packages and washing soaps to the local communities. She also heard brilliant student presentations at a local radio station; Ingo Radio. This made her aspire to be part of the team that is bringing up such outstanding sharp, creative and innovative students. She lives her dream today by teaching at the school that she is very proud of and passionate about; Kijana Global Innovation School.
She enjoys every aspect of her school. The structures here can only match those of the best campuses perhaps in Kenya. The classes are spacious. The environment is tranquil and green, which is best for indoor and outdoor learning. She says that the students here are exposed to the best learning resources, some of which are shipped from America to help them acquire global education. “My desire is to keep creating a strong foundation for young learners, which will eventually catapult them to realizing their aspirations later in life.” Naomi says.
Pauline was born in Kisumu Manyatta Village on 3rd October 1996. She is the fourth born child in a family that includes four children.
Pauline started her schooling at Kosowo Primary School in Kisumu County in 2003. She attended there until grade three. She later joined Sabane Primary School in 2007 located in Kakamega County. Pauline scored 279 marks out of possible of 500 marks in 2011 on her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exam.
Next, Pauline continued her educational journey at Lions High School in Kisumu in 2012 up to form two. She enjoyed taking part in music festivals while at Lions High School. She later joined form three at Banja Secondary School and eventually sat for her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in 2016 and scored a grade C-, which enabled her to pursue a college education.
Pauline attended Eregi Teachers Training College in 2018 for her teaching certificate and managed to get a credit of 19 points. She began her teaching career at the Intelligent Quotient Learning Centre in Nairobi. Pauline worked there for one term. In 2020, she re-enrolled at Eregi to pursue a diploma course. In 2021, she sat her final exams and scored 22 points. Pauline graduated from Eregi in 2022. After graduation, she went back to her former employer to proceed with her teaching career for another term before leaving to accept a position at Redland School for the 2022 and 2023 school years.
Pauline became aware of the Kijana Global Innovation School through a Facebook advertisement. As a result, she developed a genuine interest in knowing more about the school, as well as applying for a Playgroup Teacher job. She is grateful for the opportunity and is about Kijana Global School because it offers students a conducive environment for learning with a beautiful, serene campus.
Malack Amakobe Omusina was born in 1997 in Eburunga Village, Butere Sub County, Kakamega County. He is the first born in a family of six children. He attended several primary schools including Sagania in Busia County, Cardinal Otunga Preparatory in Nairobi County, and finally Emasera Primary in Kakamega county where he scored an impressive 331/500 marks in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (K.C.P.E); his school’s top performer in 2013.
He was a brilliant student with leadership attributes throughout his primary studies. He served as the student head of school in 2011. He also headed the school’s Debate Club.
In 2014, Malack joined St. Patrick’s Ikonyero Secondary School where he studied for two years. He later joined Shibanga Mixed Secondary School in Butere, where he completed his secondary education. While there, he worked so diligently and actively took part in interschool science competitions that earned notable awards, catapulting his ambition of becoming a successful person in the society. He graduated from secondary school in 2017 where he scored a C Plain of 44 points.
Malack says that his lifelong dream and passion was to become a teacher. In 2018, he joined Jerusa. Teachers Training College in Butere Sub County, Kakamega County. He again served as the Vice Chairman of the Students Council leading his institution to successful intercollege co-curricular activities.
Malack did his teaching practice at Shibanga and Buchenya Primary schools in 2019 and 2020 respectively, which gave him hands-on experience in passionately handling school children. He successfully completed his course with a credit rank in 2020.
Malack comes from the Kijana Global Innovation School neighborhood in Sabatia, Kakamega County, Kenya. His first encounter with it was through the Vice President of Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative; Mrs. Ebby Shiroya who offered his father a block making tender for constructing the school. This enabled him to pay Malack’s college fees and to sustain his family during the tough Covid-19 pandemic. His father also has two students in the school in grades 1 and 5.
Malack got an opportunity to work at the school as a construction worker, helping his father in making the blocks that he had perfectly mastered through an apprenticeship. Malack, being a trained teacher, was deeply interested in being part of the teaching fraternity that is shaping the education trajectory of the prestigious school that he had helped construct and fallen in love with. To him, it was a dream.
In 2021, he sought to volunteer as a teacher at his dream school; Kijana Global Innovation School. Luckily, he was absorbed in it. Today, he proudly teaches Mathematics, Hygiene, and Science here, a dream come true. He finds the school environment so beautiful that no other school in western Kenya can match it. He says that the teaching resources here are simply the best blended with a team of well trained, experienced and dedicated teachers that guarantee your child quality education. He smiles happily; a clear indication of how he enjoys this environment as he heads to prepare for his next class.
Mercy Atieno Amoke was born in 1987 in Rabuor, Kisumu County. Mercy grew up in Likoni, Mombasa County where she attended Likoni Primary School and Kore Primary School. She attained her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education in 2002. Mercy joined Achego Girls’ Secondary School in 2003. While there, she received her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education, scoring a C grade.
In 2006, Mercy began working in the Exporting and Processing Zone (EPZ) as a machine operator for Straight Sewing Machine Shinez Company, in Mombasa County to help her save some money for her college studies. In 2012, Mercy joined Migori Teachers Training College.
Following her college studies, Mercy taught at both Safaway Academy and Temudo School in Kisumu County. Mercy has over 6 years of teaching experience. In 2021, Mercy Amoke joined Kijana Global Innovation School after a successful interview process. She says that she is deeply motivated to improve the lives of children. She enjoys exploring their world, discovering a lot of fascinating things about children and hopes to help them fulfill their greatest dreams and ideas. She loves children and teaching, and she is happy to be able to fulfill her lifelong dream. Mercy is married and a mother of two children. Apart from teaching at the school, she is also a passionate Sunday school teacher.
Martin Omunyokho Andele was 31 born in Mungungune village, Lunza Sub-location, West Marama Location, Lunza Division of Kakamega County. He is the last born in the family of three boys and one girl. He is married and blessed with three children; one girl and two boys.
Martin’s schooling started at Eshikangu Primary School in 2000. He sat for his Kenya Certificate for Primary Education (K.C.P.E) in 2008 and attained the mean grade O C plain. Martin later joined Lunza Secondary School in 2009. Unfortunately, he dropped out of school the following year due to fee arrears. However, Martin worked very hard for one and half years looking for possible ways to raise school fees. Working as a motorbike rider in 2012 provided him with the funds needed to be readmitted back to school and continue his education. In 2013, Martin later sat for his Kenya Certificate for Secondary Education (K.C.S.E) in and managed to attain a mean grade of C+.
In 2014, Martin joined Eregi Teachers Training College to pursue a career in primary teaching. He successfully completed his studies and sat for his Primary Teacher Examination (P.T.E) and attained full credit.
From 2018-2020, Martin was successfully involved in implementation training of Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), sponsored by the Tropical Institute of Community Health and Development (TICH). He was awarded with a certificate of completion. He is also a licensed driver with Class C1 driver’s license.
In 2016, Martin was employed at Roshen Lake View Academy in Busia County as a teacher. In January 2017, he secured a job as a teacher at Milami Primary school, in Athi River Machakos County. In 2018, Martin was promoted to Deputy Head teacher and served in that role at the school, until February 2020. He later joined United Nations Academy in Nairobi as Head Teacher and worked there from February 2020 to May 2022.
Martin joined Kijana Global innovation School this year (2023) and is teaching the following subjects: Home Science, Grades 4,5 & 6; Social Studies, Grades 4,5 & 6, Kiswahili, Grade 5 and Christian Religion Education(C.R.E).
Martin chose the teaching profession over other careers because he is passionate and he wanted an avenue to impart knowledge and skills to younger generations. When he’s not teaching he runs a business and enjoys driving.
Martin has strong interpersonal skills and he is very approachable. This allows him to build solid working relations. Those outstanding skills help with teamwork and networking skills, and the ability to work with colleagues to learn new innovative ways of improving service delivery.
Martin applauds that Kijana Global Innovation School has a friendly learning environment that is rich in learning resources and includes facilities that are modern and aesthetically appealing.
Edith Andeso was born on 26th February 1984. She is the second born child in a family of two boys and one girl. She’s born from a humble and God fearing family. Edith was raised in Kakamega County, Khwisero Sub-county.
Her educational journey began at Eshikhungula Primary School in 1990, where she was nurtured onto school leadership as a class prefect from class one to class four. Edith vied for school leadership as the sanitation prefect and luckily enough she was elected.
In 1997, she transferred to Ikolwa Primary School where she sat for her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (K.C.P.E.) exams and managed to score 444 marks out of possible 700 marks.
Edith then joined Namasoli Secondary School in 2000, where she participated in choir and also served as a lab prefect. Edith took her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S.E) examination in 2003 and managed to attain a mean grade of D+. In 2012-2013 she enrolled in an early childhood education program in Kilindini Dicece and attained credit on her final exams.
In 2009, Edith started her teaching career as an untrained teacher at Mwinyi Junior Primary School in Mombasa. Edith is passionate in helping and nurturing young kids. After her graduation in 2014, she relocated from an urban area to a rural home where she was employed at Boston School as a teacher.
Edith became aware of the Kijana Global Innovation School after she saw the school’s bus dropping off students near her place at Emabole. This piqued her interest and she wanted to know more about the school. As a result, Edith decided to apply for a teaching vacancy at school, and luckily she was interviewed and got hired.
Edith is so grateful to the school management for giving her a teaching opportunity. She says” Kijana has a beautiful environment and the staff is so friendly too”.
Purity was born in 2003 in Shiasa Village, Butere Sub county, Kakamega county Kenya. She is the first born child in a family of five siblings, four girls and one boy. She started her educational journey in 2009 at Shirakalu Primary School, and that is where she completed her eight years of primary education. In 2017, Purity sat for her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KC.P.E.) exam and performed exemplary.
In 2018, Purity joined Khwisero Girls High School in Khwisero Sub county. While in high school she participated in both curricular and co-curricular activities. She participated in biology, physics, chemistry and mathematics contests. Purity also showed interest in debate, and was an active member of the Christian Union Choir. Purity believes that hard work pays off and that a positive attitude leads to success.
After completing four years of secondary education, she sat for her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S.E) exam in 2022 and excelled, which gave her an opportunity to continue her studies, as she had always aspired to fulfill. The same year after the completion of her secondary studies, she helped her father in selling furniture to make ends meet before joining Kabianga University in Kericho. Purity pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Education, specializing in Biology and Mathematics as her teaching subjects. While at the university, she joined the Gender Club which created awareness that every girl and boy have equal rights. Purity later joined the University of Kabianga Student Teachers Association (STA), where the main activities centered around student teachers mentoring high school students and motivating them.
In 2023 during her long holiday break, Purity worked as a housekeeper in Kiambu County for four months to help her earn money for tuition fees and other school related expenses. While on the break, she came to know about Kijana Global Innovation School through her family and friends. Purity is dedicated to nurturing young talent to help them reach their full potential in life.
On a side note, Purity’s father came to know about Kijana in 2019 when he was supplying construction materials to the school. Purity is grateful to the Global Innovation’s administration for offering her a teaching internship. She’s teaching Integrated Science and Mathematics in both grade 7 & 8.
Purity says that, “Kijana Global Innovation School is the best place because it offers a serene environment with modern digital devices. I’m determined to create a positive impact on the school and leave behind a good legacy.”
Purity loves gardening, travelling, watching movies and sporting activities. She also enjoys listening to music, attending festivals, and debating. She is a resilient and ambitious young lady, who also believes that patience is an essential quality for outstanding teachers to possess.
Derrick Omusula Chamwoma was born from a humble background on 4th December 1999 in Kakamega County. Being the first male child, he grew up to be a very responsible citizen in a household consisting of five siblings. He struggled to make ends meet from his early primary education through his higher education years. His educational journey began at Emukangu Primary School where he attended from 2006-2014. He enjoyed privileges such as being a class leader and footballer at the school.
Derrick sat for the K.C.P.E. (Kenya Certificate of Primary Education) exam in 2014 and scored 304 marks. He then went on to attend Lunza Secondary School where he served as a class governor from 2014-2018. Derrick enjoyed being a leader during his time in Lunza. He also participated in other activities such as playing football and Rugby. Upon completion of his secondary education, Derrick sat for the K.C.S.E. (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education) exam and scored C (plus) which qualified him to join Bomet University College (constituent of Moi University) in 2019. While at the university he was engaged in cultural events and learned voluminous content about different cultures. He also continued his passions of playing rugby and football.
Derrick was enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree Programme in Education as a teacher of English and Literature. Apart from the specialized programme, the university offered compulsory programmes such as Special needs in Education, Philosophy, Psychology, Communication, Sociology of Education, Guidance and Counseling, and other items related to education. There was also a special programme which entailed Greening for Sustainability Development which created awareness on how to deal with environmental hazards experienced today. Generally, his experience at the University was just amazing.
Having completed and graduated from a four year degree programme, Derrick was now fully equipped academically, physically, spiritually and psychologically to begin his professional career. He was impressed with Kijana Global Innovation School’s infrastructure and resources and decided to apply for employment. Derrick feels fortunate that he was hired and given an opportunity to apply his skills and knowledge. He is currently teaching English in Grade 7, CRE in grade 4, 7, and 6 and Social Studies grade 5 and 7. Derrick said; “I hereby congratulate you (Kijana) for the services you are offering to learners at Kijana Global Innovation School. I also applaud your team for its spirit of oneness. Generally, Derrick likes the environment of the Kijana Global Innovation school. Once again thank you for offering me an opportunity, and I look forward to working with you in the future. God bless Kijana family.”
Julius, the first born in a family of 3 siblings, was born in Esiarambatsi village, in Emuhaya Constituency in Western Kenya. He is married and has three children.
He joined Ebusiloli Primary School in 1991 and graduated in 1999, with a score of 366 out of 700 marks in the national examinations. He then joined Ebusiloli Secondary in 2000 but dropped out in 2001 due to lack of school fees. Julius later joined Ebunangwe Boys High School and graduated in 2003 with a C Plain grade. In 2008, he joined St. Joseph’s Teachers Training College where he pursued a P1 certificate course in Education. He graduated in 2010 after specializing in Mathematics and Sciences.
Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative kickstarted Julius’ teaching career by paying for his teaching services at Ebusiloli Primary School from 2012 to 2014. He taught Mathematics and Science in grades 3 and 8, where he helped to catapult the academic performance from below average to a steady above average performance. He served the school with dedication up to 2019.
Julius’ is now a teacher at our Kijana Global Innovation School, in Butere constituency, in Kakamega county; an opportunity he got in December 2019, after going through a successful application and interview process. Here, he teaches Mathematics, Physical Education, Creative Art, and Christian Religious Education for grade 1 and 2. He is the head of Evaluation and Assessment and also heads the Mathematics department at the school.
He says that this is a unique global school with the best learning and teaching material, best school infrastructure in Western Kenya, and best qualified and experienced teachers. He is proud to be part of the team that is taking Kenyan education global through the Kijana Global Innovation School, a perfect learning environment for your child. Welcome.
Sikobe Nyahela Grace was born on June 17, 1996 in Enyaela village, Ipali location, Ebusiekwe sub-location, Emuhaya sub-county, in Vihiga County. She is the third born in a family of five. She is an ambitious and hardworking individual. Sikobe is very social and easily adapts to new environments and believes in team work.
Grace started her schooling in 2002. She was enrolled in standard one at Essumba Primary School. Grace showed interest in both curricular and co-curricular activities. She joined music and dance programs while attending the school. In 2010, Grace sat for her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (K.C.P.E) exam and her performance was exemplary.
In 2011, Grace enrolled in form one at St. Stephen’s Lwanga Girls School. Again, she participated in music and dance programs. Grace also joined the school’s drama club which helped her improve her performance skills and become more knowledgeable in those areas. In 2014, Grace sat for her final secondary education exam and she excelled and passed her exams. Following graduation, she joined Maasai Mara University to pursue her degree in Education Arts (Kiswahili and History). Grace actively participated in the school’s guiding and counseling club. Grace completed her studies and graduated from Maasai Mara University in December 2021.
Grace started her teaching career at Nyamagwa Boys School and later joined Esibakala Secondary School. A friend informed her of Kijana’s Facebook page and the Global Innovation School. Grace was impressed and interested in pursuing a job opening at the school. She applied, was granted an interview, and then, hired to teach at Kijana Global Innovation School this year (2023).
Grace said that she is excited about working at Kijana Global Innovation School because its physical environment is conducive to learning. She is committed to provide the best educational opportunities to the students and be a productive and positive Kijana team member. Grace said she will apply her knowledge, skills and experience to the school and help learners of all abilities to achieve their goals.
Awaki Atieno Janepher was born in 1994 and was raised in Busia County, Bunyala Sub-county, Bunyala south ward, Rukala sub–location and Runyu village. She is the 6th born in a family of nine children. She is an exuberant, confident, introspective and outgoing teacher who is always eager to learn and anxious to gain more experiences.
Awaki began her schooling at St. Cecilia Girls Primary School. Later she transferred to Runyu Primary School where she sat for her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (K.C.P.E) in 2009. In 2010, she enrolled at St. Anne’s Bunyala Girls Secondary School to start her secondary education. Janepher participated in both curriculum and co-curricular activities such as Music & Drama Festivals, Kiswahili & Mjadala Club, and Bunyala Girls Cultural Movement. She finished her secondary education in 2013, and then began to actively participate in community development programs such as Warembo na Hamu Club. The club provided a mentorship program that empowers girls who dropped out of school due to poverty and early pregnancies in the community.
Awaki later joined Kenyenya Teachers Training College in 2015 to further her studies in education and become a competent teacher. It took her two years to complete her college studies.
Following her collegiate studies, Awaki started her own business to earn her a living during the Covid-19 pandemic. She started selling second hand clothes until 2020. In 2021, Awaki gained employment as a teacher at Budala Primary School as a Board of Management teacher.
Awaki came to know about Kijana Global Innovation School through a Facebook advertisement. Inspired by the advertisement, Awaki decided to submit an application. She was shortlisted as a teacher candidate after an impressive interview and ultimately hired. interview. She likes the Kijana Global Innovation School due the collegial atmosphere and its caring management team.
Teacher Awaki likes reading story books, singing and listening to music and trying out new recipes (cooking). Awaki said the most unique thing about Kijana Global Innovation School’s environment is that it is green and conducive to learning. She believes in sharing whatever talents she has with the children at the school. She strives to inspire others by applying her knowledge, skills and experience to the school.
Phyllis was born in 1988 in Ichangi village, Sabatia Sub County within Vihiga County in Kenya. Her family comprises her mother and her two siblings. She lost her father in 2002 from a tragic road accident. She is married and has three children.
In 1996, she started schooling at Kabiro Primary School in Nairobi. In 2004, she transferred to Wandega Primary School in Vihiga County. She sat for her final national primary exams here and scored an excellent 301 out of 500 marks.
Phyllis began her secondary education at Sanatan School Department in 2005, in Nairobi County. The same year she secured a sponsorship for her education at Akiba School, where she studied until 2007 when it ended. While here, she learned the French language for 3 years. She then transferred to Bugina Secondary School in Vihiga County in 2008 where she sat for her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education. She scored a C minus grade of 36 points.
Phyllis was also a very talented girl and represented her school in successful national music and drama competitions in Kenya. She has several accolades to her name that she won at various stages of the competitions.
She pursued a teaching career at Butere Early Childhood Development Education College from 2014 to 2016. She graduated with a Credit rank of 22 points. She has over 5 years of teaching experience from Junior Academy in Khwisero, Kakamega County, where she taught from 2014 to 2020. She taught French and Environmental Studies and was also the Head of Music and Drama. Phyllis is also a trainer of Early Childhood Development Education (E.C.D.E) teachers at Butere E.C.D.E College during school breaks.
She joined Kijana Global Innovation School in January 2021, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience for the students to benefit from. Phyllis currently teaches Literacy, English and Religious Education in Grade 1, Environmental Studies in Grade 2, Kiswahili language in Grade 3, and French in Grades 3 and 4. As a passionate and multi-talented teacher, she heads the Music and Drama Department in the school. Her work is reflected in some of the outstanding performances from students like the famous Maasai Cultural Dance now uploaded on Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative YouTube channel.
Phyllis says that she is driven by her passion to nurture children through education and skills in preparation for successful futures of world innovators and changers. She adds that she loves the conducive environment for teaching and learning at the school and appreciates the outstanding facilities and resources that have been made available for the learners to acquire global education in rural western Kenya. Phyllis states, “creativity and Innovation has been given a top priority here for learners making our students stand out among the rest in the region and in Kenya as well. This is not only a beautiful place to be, but the best place to be”.
Solomon hails from Mwituha village in Emuhondo Sub location in Emuhaya Constituency in Western Kenya. He attended Ilungu primary school from 1999 to 2007, where he scored a remarkable 325 out 500 marks in his national grade eight exams. He joined Ebunangwe Boys High School from 2009 to 2011. He later joined Sigalame High School in Busia County, where he graduated in 2013 with a B plain grade of 64 points.
Solomon is grateful that Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative paid some of his school fees at Sigalame school when he needed the help most. He says that the opportunity gave him the inspiration to work hard in order to help change his and the lives of others in need in the future.
He joined Maseno University in 2014 and graduated in 2018 with a degree of Bachelor of Education Arts; Geography Kiswahili combination. He also holds a diploma in Bible Studies from Bible Discovery school in Ruiru, in Nairobi. Solomon is currently pursuing a diploma course in education management at Maseno University.
With a wealth of knowledge, and passion to serve the community, Solomon is now a teacher of Kiswahili language, Christian Religious Education and Environmental Activities for grade 1 and 2 pupils at our Kijana Global Innovation School. He is also the head of the portfolio program in the school. He says that he loves the conducive environment for learning and teaching, and the unique global school infrastructure, rare to find in these parts of the country. He contends that this is the best place for learners in Kenya, Africa and beyond. It is a globally connected school that greatly advances opportunities for your child. Karibu! Welcome!
Josephine Makokha was born at Ituti village Butere Sub-county in 1990. She was raised from a humble background, and she’s the eldest child among five children. Josephine is married and blessed with one child.
Josephine began her schooling at Ituti Primary School in 1997. While schooling at Ituti Primary school, she participated in extracurricular activities and received awards for winning an athletic race at school. After eight years of primary school education, she sat for her K.C.P.E in 2004 and attained 299 marks out of possible 500 marks. She continued her secondary education at Shikunga Secondary School from 2005-2009. Josephine sat for her final examination after four years of secondary education and scored a mean grade of C plain. Her score secured an opportunity to join Pamus Teachers Training College in Bungoma. She pursued her certificate in education that took three years at the college. She later graduated from the institution with a pass of 27 points.
Josephine began her teaching career at Bukura Educational Complex in 2013. The environment at school was conducive to her growth as an educator, and the learners were very friendly. After three years of teaching at Bukura she departed from that school to gain more teaching experience elsewhere. She was given an opportunity to explore and share her teaching ability with the students at Damsite Academy in Marakwet County for the next three years. After teaching there, Josephine was awarded a certificate in Mathematics for attaining a mean score of 70. She also taught French.
After teaching at Damsite Academy for those three years, she decided to return back to her county since the weather was unfavorable to her well-being. She began her new career at Emutondo Primary School in 2018 and worked there until 2024.
Josephine joined Kijana Global Innovation this year and she really likes the beautiful nature of the school. She is committed to helping learners and nurturing talents at the school. She also says that the school working environment is so friendly with wonderful teaching resources. Josephine is so grateful for the Kijana family by providing an opportunity to teach at the school.
Susan was born to a humble family in 1981 in Misoma Tanzania. Susan is the youngest child that includes four siblings. Susan is part Tanzanian and Kenyan; her mother is Tanzanian and her father is Kenyan. She moved to Kenya at the tender age of 2 years old.
Susan started her primary education at Mbaga Girls’ Primary School in Siaya County and attended from 1988-1994. In 1995, she transferred to Sega Girls’ Primary School and graduated in 1996. Her talent in reciting poems gave her an opportunity to represent her school in Kenya’s national music festival in 1996. That was the same year she completed her KCPE national exams. Following the exams, Susan managed to secure an opportunity to join Aluor Girls Secondary School in 1997. Her passion for performance arts inspired her to join the school drama club. Susan represented her school at the zonal level and emerged as the best actress in the zonal drama festivals. In 2002, following the death of her beloved mother, she began attending Siaya Academy. That’s where she sat for the KCSE national exams. The score she achieved qualified her to pursue an ECDE (Early Child Educational Development Education) at a teacher training college.
Susan says, “I always had the passion to teach children from a young age”. She admired how elegant her female teachers were and how they carried themselves with decorum while passing on knowledge and valuable skills to their students. She would visualize herself doing the same, inspiring young boys and girls.
In 2012, Susan joined the African Institute of Research, Kisumu Campus to pursue a course in ECDE. She completed the course and sat for her final exams and passed with a credit rank. She later continued her studies in 2019 to pursue a diploma and did well.
She began her teaching career at Temudo Primary School in 2009 and worked there through 2020. She then worked at Msingi Primary School as an ECDE teacher. Susan’s teaching experience has shaped her to nurture young learners, especially those with special needs.
In early 2022, Susan secured a teaching opportunity at Kijana Global Innovation School where she passionately teaches pre-primary school students.
She learnt about Kijana Global Innovation School through online platforms and through former teaching colleagues who were employed at the institution.
Susan has found the school to be modern with exemplary teaching facilities and learners who also love the school.
Brigit Mbaria was born in Suba, Homabay County; a remote area of Kenya. Brigit is the third born In a family of four children. She began school in 1998 at Scout Nursery School. Brigit loved the school because it provided breakfast and lunch. She later moved to Kisumu town with her mama in 2002. While there, Brigit was admitted into a new school in the Nyalenda slums of Kisumu known as Pandpieri Primary School. Life was never easy for her and her family in the slums. However, there were so many opportunities from different organizations that sponsored children from humble backgrounds. Brigit got sponsored after participating in a swimming competition which was organized by Mellemfolkeligt Samvirke (MS) Organization of Denmark. Brigit placed second in the rankings at the swimming competition. She later transferred to a much better private school, though still within the slums. She participated in both curricular and co-curricular activities; music, football, andnetball. Brigit was also a student class representative and later the Head Girl (special duties and responsibilities) at Kisumu Jacaranda Academy. The school was never in a position to provide swimming lessons. So, during weekends Brigit and her friends would participate in swimming competitions in the Wigwa River, in Nyalenda.
Brigit joined Kisumu Girls High School in 2008 for her secondary education. In high school she was an active member of the Junior Achievers Club, Law Club, Swim Club, as well as a handball player. In Form One, she was the Kiswahili representative and whenever her teacher was not around she could lead the class. This is when she started developing a passion for teaching and made up her mind to become one in the future.
In 2014, Brigit joined Maseno University to pursue a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Education. During her second year at college, she joined the school’s handball team. She was also an active member of CHAKIMA (Chama Cha Kiswahili Maseno), which is an institution responsible for promoting the Swahili language in Kenya. She briefly paused her university studies to attend to personal matters. Brigit returned to the university in 2017 and graduated in 2019. Following graduation, she got her first teaching job at Mtopeni Secondary School in Mombasa. She only taught for two months because schools were closed due of Covid-19. During the pandemic, Brigit became an area ward representative and helped distribute donated items like; sanitary towels, soap, and food to the people of the Nyalenda.
In 2021, Brigit joined Nyamasaria Secondary School. She successfully nurtured and taught more than 700 children from different backgrounds to help prepare them for different stages in their lives. She coached the girls handball team at the school through the end of 2022. The team did well under Brigit’s leadership and advanced to regional level competitions in Kenya. She was also the Junior Achievers Club patron which partnered with the Environmental and Wildlife Club. Jointly, the clubs came up with dust bins for the school canteen area.
Brigit learnt about Kijana Global Innovation School through a friend in 2021. She researched the school on the internet and learnt about the school’s background. Brigit said, “I was first attracted to the school environment which was so green, serene and conducive for learning. In addition, I was very impressed with the school’s goal related to holistic learning”. Her curiosity was piqued and she wanted to know more and even join the school. When an opportunity arose and the school needed more employees, she applied for a job, was called for the interview, and offered a position at the school. Brigit’s job entails teaching Kiswahili and ICT. She also serves as the school’s handball coach and swimming coach, Junior Achievers patron. She also helps with the Care, Share and Explore program.
Brigit is a loyal, open-minded, patient and supportive teacher who loves making a difference in the lives of her students. She is also excellent in working with others and ready to put into practice her knowledge and experience to achieve the school’s and organization’s objectives on time and with excellence.
Benard Mukonyi was born and raised in Shiyunzi, a sub-location of the Butsotso central ward in Kakamega County. He is the seventh born in a family that consists of ten children.
He started is schooling at Ebuchira Primary School in 1999. He sat for his Kenyan Certificate of Primary Education in 2008 and scored 281 marks out of a possible 500 marks. Benard later joined St. Patrick’s Ikonyero High School in 2012. He sat for his Kenyan Certificate of Secondary Education and attained aa mean grade of C.
After completing his secondary education, Benard went to upcountry (Nakuru) to look for a job. He was hired as a supervisor at a flower company and worked there for three years. Eventually, he made the decision to pursue a career as a teacher. Benard’s decision was inspired by his faather and eldest brother, both of whom were teachers at the time. Teachers were viewed to be responsible and were respected by society at large. In particular, those factors were appealing to Benard and reinforced his decision to become a teacher.
In September 2016, he was accepted for admittance at Jerusalem Teacher’s Training College and in 2018 he sat for and passed his Primary Teacher’s Education Certification exam.
Benard began his teaching career in 2019 at Kakamega Cherish School where he taught mathematics, physical health education, science, and technology. He also focused on enhancing his professional skills by attending competency based curriculum training at Kaimosi Teacher’s Training College.
Recently, a friend of Benard’s told him about the Kijana Global Innovation School and encouraged him to apply for a teaching position at the school. Benard submitted his application and based on his credentials, was granted an interview. His interview went well and Benard was hired by the school.
Benard says, “Kijana Global Innovation School is one of the most unique schools in Kenya. It has smart board technology and exterior walls that display vibrant murals that inspire and educate learners, even before they enter a classroom. In addition, the overall classroom design and school architecture truly distinguishes itself from other schools in Kenya”.
Besides teaching, Benard has several hobbbies. He enjoys listening to music, playing football (soccer) and joinging friends for exploratory excursions. He is a talented athlete, especially dribbling a football.
Oketi Gilbert Muraa was born in 1996. He is the last born in a family of five siblings, three boys and two girls. He started his educational journey at Lunza Primary School in 2002. He sat for his KCPE in 2010. Then, Oketi joined Nambale Boys High Secondary School and later transferred to Lunza Secondary School in 2010. He sat for his KCSE in 2014. His scores on the exam demonstrated that he was highly qualified to continue his studies at the university level.
In the year 2016, Oketi joined Maseno University where he pursued a Bachelor’ degree in Special Needs Education and English Literature. Oketi successfully completed the program and graduated in 2022.
Following his graduation, Oketi’s professional endeavors include working at: Kakamega School for the Deaf, Mumias Primary School for the Deaf and St. Michael’s Emakwale Secondary School as a teacher on teaching practice, St. Angela Mumis School for the Deaf as a volunteer teacher. In addition, he’s currently a part-time tutor at St. Mary’s Medical Training College Mumias. Furthermore, he’s worked with Maseno University on a project called “Bridging the Language Barrier using Artificial Intelligence for Kenyan Sign Language among Deaf learners” (A14KSL) as a Research Assistant.
Mr. Oketi is a jovial man who likes associating with people on all levels, but truly enjoys working with students. He is very passionate about teaching, and works extra hard when helping individuals who face challenges in order to discover their full potential as learners. Oketi states, ‘’in as much as these learners have a disability they are abled differently.” Besides teaching, he enjoys reading, learning new things, acting and driving.
Oketi started working for Kijana Global Innovation School in 2024, following a successful interview process. He says that, “Kijana is a beautiful place and offers a conducive environment for learning”. He’s so happy to be a part of the Kijana family.
Mathews Musebe was born on April 3, 1995 in Mulwanda village, Butere sub-county, Kakamega County Kenya. He has a twin sister, is the fourth born and first born boy in a family of ten children. Mathews is a confident, productive, dynamic, and ambitious individual seeking to put his skills to productive action. He takes pride and derives a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment in attaining goals that come his way. He adapts easily to new environments, is an excellent team player, easily multi-tasks and interacts well in diverse settings.
Mathews started school in 2004. He was enrolled in standard one at Eshirumba Primary School. He showed interest in both curricular and extracurricular activities. Mathews joined the instrumental band and public/verse speaking club. He also played on the school football team in grade 6. In 2011, he sat for and passed his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exams. That same year, his father introduced him to driving, which would serve him well later.
In 2012, Mathews was enrolled in form one at Mabole Boys Secondary School. While there, he participated and represented the school in curricular and co-curricular activities; Kiswahili contests and verse speaking, sports, journalism club and instrumental band. Later, he became the chairperson of the Kiswahili and journalism clubs in 2013. In 2015, he sat for and passed his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).
Then, Mathews joined Jerusa Teachers Training College (JTTC) in Butere and attained a certificate following the completion of his computer training program. Mathews decided to move to Eldoret where he worked as a mechanical engineer and a turn boy (heavy construction) in 2016.
In 2017, Mathews joined Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) to study Education with concentrations in Kiswahili and Christian Religious Education (CRE). Here, he joined and actively participated in different clubs; Chama cha Kiswahili cha Masinde Muliro (CHAKIMAMU), Chama cha Wanafunzi wa Kiswahili vyuo vikuu vya Afrika Mashariki (CHAWAKAMA), Mmust Shotokan KARATE and 103.9 Mmust radio presentations. On December 17, 2021 he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education arts and registered with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) of Kenya in 2022.
In 2022, Mathews was working as a Bodaboda rider and as a personal car driver to his father, since he possessed a valid driving license. He came to know about the Kijana Global Innovation School through social media advertisements and friends who encouraged him to apply for a teaching position. He followed the advice of his friends and applied for a job at the school. Following a successful interview, Mathews was hired as a music teacher,karate trainer and part of the Kijana Care, Share and Explore Environmental team in 2023.
Mathews states, “he was interested in working at the Kijana Global Innovation School due to its commitment to provide excellent education as evidenced by the favorable student-to-faculty ratio and emphasis on high-tech equipment in the classroom environment”. He is a proficient educator and is skilled at communicating rules and instructions clearly and establishing firm boundaries. Mathews is confident that his personality and willingness to adopt and grow will fit well with the philosophy of the Kijana Global Innovation School. He will apply his attributes, knowledge and experience to the school believing he is fully equipped to work, inspire and make a positive contribution to the school. He is not only highly organized, but also has a passion for creating a positive and productive work environment.
George Ochieng was born on 6th June 1992 in Rangala Mission Hospital in Siaya County. George is the only child of a single mother who has been deceased since 1997. His life was heavily influenced by his grandmother who provided parental care and encouraged him to work hard in his education to become a better person in life. George is married and is blessed with one daughter.
George started his education in 1999 and sat for his KCPE(Kenya Certificate of Primary Education) in 2006 at Ndere Mixed Primary School after completing 8 years of study. He later joined Oasis of Hope Secondary School in 2008 and sat for his KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education) after finishing four years of high school education in 2011. George scored a C plain on his KCSE.
Following graduation from secondary school, George performed odd jobs that enabled him to raise school fees to further his studies at the collegiate level. In 2014, George began a Primary Teacher’s Education (PTE) training program at Jans Teachers College. He finished his studies in 2016 and passed his final exam, which allowed him to be a certified teacher.
George began his teaching career as a Board of Management Teacher after completing his college education. He taught at the following schools before being hired at Kijana Global Innovation School in 2023: Kanyamony Primary School, Lilivision School, Spring of Hope School. He currently teaches: Mathematics, Grades 7 & 8; English, Grade 6; Christian Religious Education (C.R.E), Grades 5 & 6; and Science, Grade 4.
George became aware of Kijana in 2022 on Facebook. He liked the page and started to follow Kijana’s daily status updates. In November 2022, George saw a post indicating a teaching vacancy at Kijana Global Innovation School. He promptly applied and was granted an interview and hired at the school this year (2023). George feels privileged to serve young boys and girls at Kijana Global Innovation School. George said, “education as a career became a possibility after a sponsor, who was a teacher by profession, took me to school and demonstrated a high spirit while teaching. That experience helped me decide to one day help children and to contribute to the greater good of the people of Kenya and the world.”
Furthermore, George states, “the Global Innovation School is a beautiful campus that is welcoming to everyone. The grounds are bright and beautiful and the zigzag wall design of the classroom buildings is unique. The classrooms are well-furnished with desks and chairs, smartboards and other valuable learning resources. It’s his first time seeing and using a smartboard and is excited about using it to enhance student learning.
In his free time, George likes dancing and reading various educational materials. The following motto serves as continuous encouragement for him, “Never ever give up, success is always coming, even when you feel like giving up”.
Pamela Odira Nyagowa is a very experienced, well-organized and dedicated teacher. Her class is with no doubt the best decorated in the school. She was born in 1971 in Konyaluo village, Karachuonyo ward, Rachuonyo Sub County, Homabay County. She is the fifth born in a family of 9 other siblings. In 1993, she got married to Daniel O. Oketch and they are blessed with three lovely children; Vivian, Loraine and Brillian.
Pamela grew up at a time when education for a girl in Kenya and Africa was not given much attention. She started schooling at age nine at Nyakango Primary School and completed her primary education in 1988. A year later, she joined Moi Girls High School in Eldoret for her secondary education. She sat for her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education in 1992 at the same school.
Growing up, Pamela says that her ambition was always to become a teacher. This strong intrinsic motivation led her to join Montessori Teachers College in Mombasa in 2000 to pursue her Early Childhood Development Education (E.C.D.E) degree. She successfully graduated in 2001.
She began her teaching career at Shanzu Preparatory School where she taught for 2 years. She later moved to Kisumu County in 2002 where she loyally taught at Temudo Primary School as an E.C.D.E teacher till 2020. During her 19 years of teaching at Temudo, she served as the Head of E.C.D.E and is remembered as a loving and affectionate teacher who facilitated great personality development in junior learners.
Pamela furthered her education between 2014 and 2015 when she joined Monao Teachers Training College in Kisumu County to pursue a certificate course in Integrated Thematic. She graduated with a remarkable credit rank of 25 points in 2015.
In January 2021, Pamela secured an opportunity to teach at the incredible Kijana Global Innovation School after her successful interview. She teaches Pre-Preparatory Two class at the school. She heads the E.C.D.E Literature, Environmental, Guiding and Counselling and Welfare departments. She is also an active participant in music and poetry at the school.
She says that she was super excited to get this amazing chance in a great school that is based on the principles of exploration, discovery and innovation. “This is a perfect opportunity for me to share my knowledge and skills with the learners and to contribute positively to their future dreams and aspirations through laying a solid academic foundation.” Pamela adds that despite the beautiful conducive environment for learning, the school is unique in the sense that the teachers use a child-centered practical approach in disseminating knowledge which makes the students here quick learners, innovative and super brilliant.
Now nicknamed as ‘Teacher Sam’ by pupils at the Kijana Global Innovation School, Samwel was born in 1987 in Enyahela village, in Ipali location, Emuhaya Constituency of Western Kenya, Africa. He is the fifth born in a family of 8 siblings. He is a man married with 4 children; 3 boys and 1 girl. He is a humble, composed man full of friendly smiles.
He schooled at Ebbiba Primary from 1997 to 2004 where he scored 265 out 500 marks in eighth grade. He then joined Esibila Secondary School from 2005 to 2006. He went on to complete his high school education at Essong’olo Secondary School in 2008.
In 2014, Sam joined St. Michael Trinity Teachers Training College in Eregi, and graduated in 2015 with a certificate in Early Childhood Development Education (E.C.D.E), with a Credit rank. He furthered his education from the same institution in 2016 and graduated with a Diploma in E.C.D.E, with a Credit rank. In Kenya, E.C.D.E course is taken by almost 90% female students. However, Sam says that he was inspired by an internal urge to build the academic foundation for young learners. He was the only male ECDE student in a class of 78 students in his first semester of his first year. Sam has a passion for E.C.D. education and says that he plans to further his studies to the highest level possible.
He was a dependable E.C.D.E teacher at Neema Grace Christian School, in Luanda Constituency from 2016 to 2019. He was the pupils’ favorite, their role model and a father figure.
Sam is now the ECDE teacher at our Kijana Global Innovation School, in Butere Constuency in Kakamega County, in western Kenya, after a highly successful interview. Sam enjoys his profession. He loves working with the children and they love him too. He says that he knew the school through Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative Facebook page, and that he is grateful to be a teacher at this prestigious Global Innovation school. He acknowledges that the school has the best school infrastructure, learning and teaching material, and a tranquil environment conducive for learning that cannot be matched by any other in Western Kenya. All are welcome.
Gregory Opiyo was born on Thursday 29TH July 1993 in Kakamega County, Butere Sub-County, and Butere Township Location. He is the first-born son of his parents, Mr., and Mrs. Stephen Opiyo. He grew up in a healthy and happy environment. Gregory’s early childhood development education began in 1999 at Mumias Central Primary School.
Gregory later joined Class 1 at Shiyiro Primary School in 2002 to start his primary education. He eventually transferred to Ibokolo Primary School and stayed full-time with his grandmother from 2002 to 2003. This move allowed his parents to successfully complete their own academic studies that year.
He transferred again to Bukolwe Primary School in Class 3 and attended there from 2004 to 2009 where he sat for his Kenyan Certificate of Primary Education (K.C.P.E). Gregory scored well on the exam, thereby successfully completing his primary school education.
In 2011, Gregory started Form 1 at St. Paul’s Ibokolo Secondary School. He finished his secondary schooling in 2014. He successfully sat for his Kenyan Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S.E) that same year, thereby, completing his secondary school education. While attending secondary school, Gregory enjoyed leading discussions with his classmate, which developed into a genuine interest in his various subjects, especially Mathematics. On several occasions, he was selected as a speaker to represent the school in symposiums and contests. He always strived to do his best at the symposiums. His participation at these events served as an inspiration to become a teacher.
In 2015, Gregory applied for and accepted at Kaimosi Teacher’s Training College. With the support of his parents, he managed to join Kaimosi in September 2015.In 2017, he completed his college studies and sat for his Primary Teacher Education exam (P.T.E).
Following the successful completion of both his studies and exit examination, Gregory started his practical teaching experience in Mutoma Primary School in 2018. While there, he enjoyed interacting with students both in curricular and co-curricular activities.
While at Mutoma Primary School, he developed a great passion in information and communications technology (ICT). As a result, Gregory decided to join the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) as a part-time student from 2019 to 2020. He was issued a certificate of completion after passing the program examination. In 2021, Gregory also joined Kaimosi Teacher’s Training College to pursue a diploma in primary teacher education. He sat for and passed his Upgrade Diploma Program in Primary Teacher Education (UDPTE Assessment) in 2022.
In late 2023 he applied to teach at several different private schools, including the Kijana Global Innovation School. At that time, he was hired to teach at Butere Spotlight Junior Academy. However, a post-hire call from Kijana resulted in an interview on Wednesday 17TH April 2024 and changed Gregry’s original plans. Gregory was offered and accepted a position at Kijana Global Innovation School in 2024.
Everlyne Achieng Otieno was born in 1989, in Komolo village Homabay town Sub-county in Homabay County. She is the first born in a family of ten children. She started school in 1998 at Muthaiga Primary School in Nairobi. Everlyne transferred to Rarienda Primary School in Siaya County and later completed her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (K.C.P.E) in Orego Primary School in 2005.
Everlyne then joined St.Peter’s Disii Secondary School in Homabay County in 2006. She served as Student Secretary for the school’s Wildlife Club. She was also a member of the Drama Club, where she had a chance to participate in drama at the national level as an actress. In 2009, Everlyne sat for and passed her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams.
After completing her secondary education, Everlyne gained employment at New Wide Garments in Athi River. In 2010, Export Production Zone (E.P.Z) Kenya employed her as an assistant. She was later promoted to a machine operator. While in Athi River, Everlyne was sponsored by the Catholic Church to attend a short course provided by Families Matter. Prior to 2016, Everlyne resigned from New Wide Garments to attend to personal matters.
In 2016, Everlyne was blessed with a child. She decided to move to Butere Sub-county in Kakamega County where she established a small business to earn a living. In 2018, she was also employed as a marketing agent for the following companies, M-Kopa Solar and Sunking Solar.
In 2018, Everlyne developed an interest in teaching, because she desired to interact and help young children. That passion inspired her to join Jerusa Teachers College to pursue her studies in Early Child Development Education (ECDE). In 2021, Everlyne attained her teaching certificate after successfully completing her course work.
In 2022, Everlyne worked as a volunteer teacher at Buchenya Primary School in Butere Sub-county. While at Buchenya, she was offered to teach a short course titled “Every Child Counts” that focused on children rights. Every Child Counts was sponsored by One Hope International.
This year (2023), Everlyne applied for a teaching vacancy advertised by Kijana Global Innovation School. After a successful interview, she was hired to teach at the school. Everlyne stated, “ I wanted to apply and teach at Kijana Global Innovation School, because I was inspired by the unique nature of the school and its vision”.
Modestar was born in 1980 in Malinya Village, Shirumba Ward, Ikolomani Sub County, Kakamega County. She is the third born in her family. She is married and blessed with two girls and one boy.
She started her primary education at Muraka Primary School in 1988. She later transferred to Malinya Primary School in 1991 where she graduated in 1996. She served as Deputy Head girl and later as the Head girl. She then joined Shikokho Secondary School in 1997 and graduated in 2000. She played soccer and was the athlete to beat while in high school.
Modestar says that she always had the passion to teach. She would admire how elegant her female teachers were and how they carried themselves with decorum while passing on knowledge and valuable skills to the students. She would visualize herself doing the same, inspiring young boys and girls.
She joined Eregi Teachers Training College in 200,3 but her parents could not raise the money required for her to sit for her final exams, prompting her to drop out since girl child education was not given much priority in those days.
In 2013, Modestar completed her proficiency exam at the Shanzu Business School. She trained for an Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) course from 2014 to 2016 at the above named institution. She scored a credit rank of 27 points upon her graduation in January 2016.
She has taught before at Nairobi Trinity Angel Academy in Umoja, Jabez Bethel in Malindi, Nyali Primary School in Mombasa County and Premier Malindi School in Kilifi County.
From 2018 to 2019 she served as an ECDE teacher at Ebubala Primary School in Kakamega County and also served as the head of the Guiding and Counselling Department. She taught the same at Boston School in Butere, Kakamega County.
In early 2021, Modestar secured a teaching opportunity at Kijana Global Innovation School where she passionately teaches the Play Group class of students.
Modestar loves the environment and the modern resources that are used to pass knowledge and skills across the school. She states, “This is the best school in Western Kenya because parents can be sure that their children will acquire global knowledge and skills. May God bless the school founder and President of Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative; Mr. James P. Cummings for coming up with such a great resourceful center in this community.”
Moses was born in August of 1985 in Kimilili sub County, Trans-Nzoia County. Moses is the tenth child in a family of 13 siblings.
Moses started his educational journey at Namwaga Primary School, and later joined Busia Township where he completed his primary education and sat for his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (K.C.P.E.) in 2000. Moses excelled on the exam and continued his education.
Following the completion of his primary education, Moses continued his studies at Kilingili Secondary School. After completing four years of secondary education, Moses sat for his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S.E.) exams in 2004 and performed well.
After failing to raise school fees to continue with his college studies, Moses opted to move to Mombasa to perform various jobs to enable him survive and try to raise school fees. After a long struggle from 2004 to 2015 to make ends meet, Moses ultimately managed to raise the amount needed to attend Narok Teachers Training College to pursue a certificate in primary education. He managed to complete his studies and graduated with a certificate in primary education.
In 2021, Moses attended Kaimosi Teachers Training College to pursue a one year diploma in primary education.
Moses’ interest in teaching started early while he was still in primary school. He was a great admirer of his teachers at the primary school and they served as positive role models to emulate as he pursued his own career path.
Moses became aware of the Kijana Global Innovation School through friends that he asked about the best schools to teach around Sabatia. Following the input from his friends, Moses decided to apply to the Global Innovation School. Following an impressive interview process, Moses was hired to teach Kiswahili, CRE, Social Studies & Agriculture for grades 3 through 6.
Ademba Patrick Were was born in Matungu, a sub county of Kakamega County on 20th August 1993. His parents separated immediately following his birth. He was raised by his mother and stepfather in Butere, where his mum remarried.
At age of 6, Ademba was enrolled at Esirembe Primary School for early education and later graduated to class one in 2002. In November 2009, he sat for his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) and scored 379 marks out of a possible 500 marks. The exemplary results gave him an opportunity to join Kakamega High School, the dream didn’t actualize since his parents couldn’t afford the school fees for a national school. This led Ademba to join Eshirembe Secondary School; a sub county school for secondary education.
Ademba states, ‘’life was not easy because my parents were just struggling to make both ends meet and therefore even paying the school fees was not easy. However, this didn’t affect me negatively in terms of performance.’’ The worst thing that happened to him during his second year of secondary school was a tragedy that he lives to remember. It was when he witnessed the demise of his mentor, his comforter, his only hope, his stepdad who was paying for his school fees. This incident had a negative impact on his overall well-being, and affected his performance at school.
Ademba had to gain momentum again during his last year of school because it was the best option towards his destiny. He tried his best when he sat for his final KCSEl exams. He scored a mean grade of C plain.
Following his graduation, Ademba supported his mother by going to teach in a private school as an untrained teacher in 2014. After having taught for almost a year in Mentor Complex Academy, he realized he had a passion for teaching. He was greatly motivated by the students’ performance because of his teaching efforts. Ademba would be recognized and awarded for being the best teacher.
In 2015, November, Ademba decided to join Kaimosi Teachers Training College for a certificate in primary education. He successfully completed the training with several certificates apart from attaining a P1 certificate; computer certificate, and a certificate for having helped the college emerge victorious in the whole western and Nyanza region by coming in second at the National ball games at Kericho Teachers Training College.
Following college, Ademba joined Mentor Complex Academy in 2018. His students’ exemplary performance on their KCPE exams in English attracted interest from several competing schools and for that reason he joined Junior Complex Academy in Manyulia. While at Junior he again posted exemplary results in both Khwisero and Butere Sub-counties. In 2019 they were among the top 5 in the entire Kakamega County.
Ademba was impressed by both the abundance of resources, and the wonderful physical environment of the Kijana Global Innovation School. As a result, he decided to apply for a teaching position. He’s a coachable, self-driven, active team player always willing to go above and beyond, to break records of self-standards. According to Ademba, I am humbled and grateful for Kijana considering me. Kijana won’t regret having me around because I believe I am a valuable asset to the school, especially the young learners I will serve.
Staff
Phoebe was born in Konyowo village, in Ugenya Sub County in Siaya County in the Lake Victoria region in Kenya. She is married and has 2 children.
In 2001, She went to St. Mary’s Primary school in Nakuru and graduated in 2008 with a 290 out of 500 marks score in the national exams. She then joined St. Mary’s Girls high school in Nakuru in 2009 for her secondary education and graduated in 2012 with a C plus grade. Phoebe then joined FPFK Institute in Nakuru, where she pursued a computer studies course. She later joined Ujima College for 2 years where she pursued a proficiency secretarial course.
She is currently serving as the Secretary of our Kijana Global Innovation School after having been appointed in December 2019. She previously worked as the secretary at the Royal City Hotel in Nakuru from 2014 for 5 years.
Her primary role is performing secretarial duties at the Kijana Global Innovation School, which includes receiving, meeting and greeting school stakeholders, responding to school telephone calls, and preparing school reports as required, among other duties.
Lawrence’s formative years of education began at Mwituha Primary School. He graduated from there in 2004. He later joined Mwituha Secondary School in 2006 as a Pioneer student, before switching to Ebusiloli Secondary School where he graduated in 2009. Lawrence holds a certificate in Computer from Kisumu Polytechnic. He also holds a certificate in NGO management from Royal Prevention Organization (Uganda).
Lawrence’s professional career includes working as an Information Communication and Technology teacher at Esiarambatsi Community Outreach Center and a Data Manager at Family Search Organization, before joining Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative in 2013 as a volunteer.
In 2014, Lawrence benefited from the organization’s tour to Kigali, Rwanda for Global Peace Day celebrations. His efforts in creating more online awareness for the organization helped increase its online presence from 71 Facebook likes to almost 457,000 likes today. Lawrence is among the team that pioneered the establishment of the Kijana Global Innovation School. He is currently working with Kijana as a photographer, videographer and social media coordinator, as well as an ICT expert.
Lawrence says, “Kijana provides people with the opportunity to gain knowledge and build their career. Working for Kijana has given me a platform to improve my photography skills. Kijana has given me a global exposure”. Some of his pieces of work have been featured on international television in Florida USA. For instance, CBS 12 NEWS and WPTV have highlighted his outstanding work.
Moses, a Kenyan citizen, comes from humble beginnings. He is the ninth of eighteen children in his family. During his childhood, Moses faced many life challenges. Moses’ mother, who practiced small-scale farming and domestic work to make ends meet, was a major influence in his life.
Moses primary school education began at Bukolwe E.C.D. He completed eight years of study there and attained his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (K.C.P.E) in 2004. Moses scored 371 marks out of a possible 500 marks on the exam. He was the top student at his school that year, which secured him an opportunity to join St. Peter’s Seminary Boys School in Mumias. Unfortunately, Moses was unable to attend the school because his family was unable to raise the school fees. However, he later joined Bukolwe Mixed Secondary School where he completed his four years of secondary school education, even though it was difficult to raise the necessary funds to attend. Moses persevered through the challenges and ultimately took his national secondary education exam to complete his secondary education. He managed to score a mean grade of C minus. This provided him an opportunity to join Sigalagala Technical and Training Institute to pursue a diploma course in library and information science. He completed the library and information science course at Sigalagala institute in 2012. During his studies, Moses also gained knowledge in Kenya youth against gender based violence training in 2009.
Prior to his employment at the Kijana Global Innovation School, Moses has worked at a district information and documentation center as an assistant officer, and an assistant librarian at both Bukolwe Secondary School and Eshibinga Mixed Boarding School. In addition, he was employed at the West Kenya Sugar Company as an offloading supervisor, and held jobs at mega garment industries.
Moses states, “my urge to deliver my skills really motivated me to join Kijana, especially serving and interacting with children. I like the infrastructure designs and the school profile really motivated me to apply here. I am thankful for the opportunity to work at the school. It is a special place that is conducive to learning, and provides exploratory adventures to all learners. May God bless Kijana since education is an equalizer.”
Jackson Mejar was born in 1991 in Bululu village, Butere Constituency in Kakamega County of Western Kenya. He is the third born in a family in his family. Jackson is married and has two children. Jackson studied at Bululu Primary School and graduated in 1998, unfortunately due to financial constraints his academic journey was cut short.
He worked as a cane cutter between 2008 and 2019 at Mumias Sugar Company. He says that he was pleased to join Kijana Global Innovation School at the beginning of 2020. He is excited to be part of a team that is making great contributions to the academic environment of the school. His main responsibility is taking care of the garden work within the school compound and ensuring that the lawns are mowed, a job he enjoys so much.
Jackson says, “working here has enabled me to earn an income which enables me to cater to my family’s needs while paying school fees for my children, so they acquire the education that I yearned for,”. He likes the school since it is unique and one of a kind in western Kenya. He also believes that there is no other amazing dream school in western Kenya like Kijana Global Innovation School.
Emily Nalaka was born in Kituamba village in Trans-Nzoia County. She is the second born in a family of four. Emily attended Kongoli Primary School in Motosiet village. She was an active member of the soccer team, a sport that thrills her to date. However, due to financial constraints, Emily could not further her studies.
After primary school level, she toiled in farming in order to be able to cater for herself and her younger siblings. She heard about Kijana Global Innovation School from a friend and decided to apply for the position of store keeper. After a successful interview, she joined the team in January 2021.
Emily’s determination, dedication and strong will has enabled her to thrive at the school. She says that she loves Kijana because of the ambience, the great team working here and the great impact the school is making to the surrounding community. She is a mother to four children, three girls and a boy.
Reuben Kiprono Simotwo was born in 1977 in Nakuru County, Kamara location. He is married and blessed with 6 children.
He joined the transport sector after completing his education in 1996. In 200, Reuben joined the public vehicle sector to work as a driver. After 7 years he joined the heavy commercial vehicle sector. Reuben has worked with Mombasa Maize Millers in Kisumu and Mumias Sugar Company as a truck driver.
In 2017, Reuben joined Temudo School as a school driver and worked there until 2020. He interviewed for the position of school driver at Kijana Global Innovation School and joined the school in November 2020.
Reuben says that he is grateful to be working as a driver in such a wonderful environment. Since he started his career he says that Kijana Global Innovation School has stood out to be the best place he has ever worked. He enjoys the management and teamwork at the school and hopes to help the school prosper more.
Susan is the longest serving member of the Kijana staff. She studied at Ebusiloli Primary School and later attended Ebusiloli Secondary School where she sat for her KCSE and gained admission to the Technical University of Kenya in 1994 to pursue a degree in Business Administration. She holds a certificate in IT (Information Technology) from Kima International School of Theology and an NGO Management and Planning Certificate from the Royal Aids Prevention Organization in Uganda. In 2000, Susan trained as a Nurse Assistant at Sagam Community Hospital.
She pioneered the registration of Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative as an NGO in Kenya and served as the organization’s Secretary and Treasurer for 2 years. She then served as an Assistant Program Manager before serving as the Coordinator between 2000 and 2018. One of her biggest achievements is successfully coordinating the Global Student Summit which aimed at finding solutions to fresh water scarcity in 2020. She has been a force to reckon with in the success story of Kijana.
Susan has also served as a school matron at Ebusakami Girls’ High School from 2002-2004. She has also served in the Electoral Commission of Kenya as an accounting clerk in 2002 and 2005. She is a trusted board member of Ebukuya Primary School from 2007 to date, Mescals Children Centre of Hope since 2016 and a guardianship program coordinator in 2018 and 2019.
Damary was born in Shitali village in Butere Sub County in Kakamega County in 1979. She says that she loved cooking since growing up as a young girl. She also likes watching movies and she says that her favorite movie is ‘The Titanic.’
Damary joined Buchenya Primary School in 1987 and graduated in 1995 with a score of 350 out of 700 marks in the national examinations. She then joined Lihrembe girls secondary in 1996 and graduated in 1999. In 2001, she joined Intraglobal Training Institute where she trained for a certificate course in Hotel and Catering Management.
She worked as a kitchen attendant at Kilimoni Secondary School as a kitchen attendant from 2002 to 2003. She then worked as a sales lady at House of Manji (biscuits’ company) from 2004 for 2 years. She later worked at Regal Press in Industrial area, Nairobi as a tea girl from 2006 to 2011.
She was appointed as a cook in December 2019 at the Kijana Global Innovation School. She says that she is lucky to serve at this prestigious global school in a tranquil remote setting, and super conducive for every learner.
Care, Share and Explore Program Team
Anita Achieng Odhiambo was born on 3rd July 1993 in Winam, Kisumu County. She joined Joel Omino Primary School in 2001 in Nyalenda Ward, Kisumu County and scored 356 marks. In primary school she was actively involved in the Environmental Club (Wildlife) which she says later informed her career path. Anita joined Bunyore Girls’ High School in 2009, scoring a C+.
In 2012, she gained admission at Kenyatta University to pursue Environmental Health. Anita says that this was inspired by her uncle who is also passionate about the environment. During her undergraduate studies, she was involved in different environmental conservation activities such as; cleanup of slum areas in Nairobi, environmental conservation education for children and tree planting activities. She has managed to plant a variety of trees, like fruit trees, with the help of her dad back home in Migori County.
In 2015, Anita was a volunteer attache at the Public Health Department for Kisumu County Hospital and a youth advocate attachee for Family Health Options in 2016. From 2018-2020, she worked for Community Aid Development International Fund (CADIF) engaging in different environmental conservation activities. During that same time period, she underwent tree nursery establishment training during an Exchange Program of Permaculture both in Germany and Kenya.
Anita says that she was motivated to apply for the job position at Kijana because it was inclined towards environmental conservation programs. Through partnership with Kijana she has managed to set up 10 tree nurseries in 10 different schools. In five years, Anita wants to be a renowned Environmental Activist through the Kijana Organization.
Linda Shiroya was born in Eshianda village in Butere, Kakamega County. She is the first born in a family of four girls. She attended primary school at Shianda Primary School and later joined Star Academy in Kakamega in 1994, where she sat for her KCPE. Linda scored 560 out of 700 on her KCPE. Linda excelled in academics and was also a student leader in primary school.
In addition, she participated in the debate club and the agriculture club while in high school at Sinoko Secondary School in Kitale. She sat for her KCSE and scored a C plain to complete her high school career. Linda says that being a member of these clubs developed her passion for the environment and stirred her need to advocate for environmental conservation which largely contributed to her career path.
She joined Thika Campus to undertake an environmental science course for her university studies. Linda states, “I have taught pupils tree planting and nursery preparation in most primary schools in Nyakach. I was motivated by economic reasons and the need for a healthy environment so that the earth may continue to produce wealth. Thus the need to protect soil, water and air is vital”.
She says that she was fascinated by the Kijana Global Innovation School because of its passion for the environment. Hence, she joined Kijana to nurture and educate the pupils to understand the importance of planting trees. Our children need to be encouraged to plant more trees in order to reduce global warming and create a habitat for thousands of different species on the globe. So far, Linda has engaged 10 schools in Nyakach to build 20 seedbeds of Acacia and Grevillea tree species respectively. As a result, she hopes that through these schools 170,000 seedlings will be planted in a month’s time. This will help us achieve our target of helping the Kenyan government plant 2 billion trees by 2022. In 5 years, she hopes that this environmental job challenges and inspires her to help the community in going green.
Prideluck Ubagah Kabugane is a Kenyan youth from Mumias, Kakamega County. She attended Starehe Girls High School and later proceeded to Moi University where she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management.
Prideluck says that since Primary school, she has always been a very passionate member of the Kenya Scouts Association, and it is from here that she developed her love for nature, camping and hiking, which informed her choice of course (Tourism Management) after high school. She chose to study Tourism Management in order to be able to experience more of what nature has to offer and to interact with people and their cultures; a fete that she says that she has passionately achieved over the years.
She has taken part in various environmental activities such as environmental clean ups, environmental awareness creation and tree planting, both as a student in university and in the community. She draws her inspiration from Gaylord Nelson, the founder of Earth Day who said “Our goal is not just an environment of clean air and water and scenic beauty. The objective is an environment of decency, quality and mutual respect for all other human beings and all other living creatures.”
Prideluck Ubagah Kabugane is the Public Relations and Admissions person at the Kijana Global Innovation School. “Sharing with people about this prestigious school and what it offers to learners in the western region is a fulfilling moment for me.” She says. Kijana is a complete turnaround for the education system in Kenya and beyond.
Our School
Kijana School Opening
We opened our Kijana Global Innovation School with 15 students on January 13, 2020. Five teachers served as our inaugural faculty. The school was still in the process of being constructed, yet our students and their families were eager to be part of such a special and growing school. From the beginning, classrooms were much more spacious than area schools and the rooms were clean and with only 15 students, the five experienced teachers were able to provide significant individual attention to learners. By March 13th, when all schools in Kenya were closed due to the pandemic, student enrollment had risen to 28. Since the school has closed, we have continued to provide students with resources to learn at home. We have additionally provided families and other community members with care packages of food, soap, and masks to assist them during these challenging times.
Emergent School Culture
We had only just begun to develop a lively and comfortable learning environment for our students when the pandemic forced all schools to close. We are continuing to develop an environment where learners explore, play, interact with their peers and adults in a safe environment for development. We have a comfortable playground, very spacious classrooms with inviting furniture, many contemporary children’s books and beautiful kid’s carpets. We are developing plans to incorporate manipulatives, such as LEGO, into a structured learning environment with the goal of ultimately developing a robotics team. Each student has access to reading material at present and we are diligently developing a literary culture. We believe strongly that the physical learning space is extremely important. Students learn and feel comfortable, as we all do, in beautiful, inviting places. Consequently, we have unique public art already established on the school campus and will be developing wonderful artistic displays throughout the school in order to encourage the development of student creativity and expression. Students will ultimately be invited to create their own artistic expressions which will be preserved over years at the school so students learn to shape and impact their community and etch their own creative mark on the future.
A Vision Realized
The Kijana Global Innovation School has been a long term goal of Kijana President James P. Cummings, who after 30 years of sustained relationship building and commitment to uplifting educational communities of western Kenya and beyond, has succeeded in opening the doors of the institution.
The Kijana Global Innovation School has a capacity of 250 students as of mid-year 2022. Kijana Educational Empowerment Initiative, the parent NGO/Non-profit organization is developing a robust financial aid program to serve many of the capable, but underserved youth of the local community as it grows. President James P. Cummings intends to develop the school into the most advanced academic K-12 institution in the three-county region of Kakamega, Siaya, and Vihiga and a model for K-12 educational development worldwide.
Phase One of the School’s physical development was overseen by Project Manager, Ebby Shiroya. The Architect and Contractor was Jeremiah Awori, and the site plan initial layout was the vision of Kijana Vice-President and Co-founder, Bruce Huber. The Founding Principal was Mr. Simeon Buluku Apeli.
Location
The school is located at Sabatia-Butere, Kakamega County, at Mulusi Village, Ekero-Buyango Rd. Kenya. Contact us at:
Phone: +254 758 074 712
Email: kijanaschool@kijana.org
Help Build the School
Our Multi-year Capital Campaign
Our Kijana Global Innovation School has only been possible as a result of many generous donors. We are in the midst of a multi-year Capital Campaign to raise the necessary funds to build this institution of wonder, exploration, inspiration and collective and individual skill development.
Consider joining the many individuals, and foundations, who have invested in our vision and are paving the way for these incredible learning opportunities for our global youth.
Together we are creating opportunities for youth to explore their talents, find new inspiration, seek new avenues for determination and become change-makers for the future in a variety of ways.
Thank you very much to all who have contributed. Click on the following Donate Today button to see our Givebutter Campaign page. If interested in donating in other ways, including stock, please contact Kijana President, James P. Cummings at kijana@kijana.org.
Campaign Donors
We recognize here the leadership gifts and pledges of the following individuals and foundations. We will update the list as new gifts are donated. We are particularly grateful to Stephanie and John Pew, whose gift in May 2019 of $100,000 provided us with the seed money to begin construction in earnest, launching the development of the school.
Global Opportunity Builder: $1,000,000+
Stephanie and John Pew/John and Stephanie Pew Family Foundation
Global Transformer: $500,000+
Kate and Geoff Cubitt
Global Adventurer: $250,000+
School Starter: $100,000+
James and Susan Bere
Gail and James L. Cummings
Student Opportunity Catalyst: $50,000+
Anonymous
Anonymous
James E Bohnen/The Osprey Foundation
Randall, Rebecca and Bryan Doane, Edward & Bethel Kean Foundation, Sherman M. and Rita Siegel Foundation, Mildred L. Phillips Charitable Foundation
Mary and Eric Hanson
Global Citizen: $25,000+
Anonymous
Michael B. Cummings and Karen Hyun
Brian and Suzanne Selmo
Innovator: $10,000+
Linda Bohnen
Tammie and RJ Cummings
The Grandone Family Charitable Fund
Marna and Phil Pier
Jack and Anita Scarola
Christian D. Searcy Sr.
Explorer: $5,000+
Kulwant S. and Amritk K. Dhaliwal Family Trust
Lynne and Perry Feyk
Sheryl Kittrell
Koches Family Foundation
Nancy McDaniel
Ellin and Bruce Miller
Susan Scarola
Sandra Young
Independent Thinker: $1000+
Hyacinthia Becton
John Billingsley
Stephen and Jana Bohnen
Catherine Broadhead
Elizabeth Brown
Hersha Chauhan
Kathy Craft
James and Natalie Crowley
Rohit Dandiya
Chris Diamantis
Chad and Nancy Dickerson Giving Fund
Susan and Bruce Duncan
Allen Eyestone
Patricia and Steve Faivre
Erika Ford
Susanne Fruehauf
John Mark Gilbert and Maria-Victoria Isabel Mercedes Moreira/The Dante Moreira Gilbert Fund
Cara and Patrick Hansen
Bruce Huber
Ted, Jill, and Claire Hubley
Kathleen Hudson
Andrew Isaacson
Thomas Isaacson
Kristen Kirk
David Koerner
Lisa Koches
Paul McAvoy
Leslie McBride-Salmon
Mary and Joseph Merchant
Ann Mommsen
Rhinah Ondiso
Kevin and Chris Pearson
Shelley R. Peters
Kelly Pontano
Marnie Ritchie Poncy
Rebecca Ryan
Judith Sarnecki
Megan Sarnecki and Robert Cummings
Denice Sexton
Priyesh Shah
Ariel Shibilski
Robert Simpson
Mary Pat Studdert
Lekshmi and Nanda Venu
David Watterson
Jamie Weinstein
Marion White
Aaron Wielenberg
Kate Wolters
Helen and Chet Zientek
Griot/Storyteller: $500+
Hailey, Nick and Marion Albergo
Anonymous
Terri Auchter
Julia Augustine
Nikolaos Biziouras
Patricia Blash
Becky Bush and Faith Sasser
Nick Chimerakis
Ben Clark
Sam and Alie Cohen
Margaret Anne Cummings
Marsha Cummings
Molly Cummings
John M. Curry
Philip J. and Susannah Dameron
Chad Dickerson
Richard L. Fleischer
Marcus Fox
Daniel and Laura Fry
Marion Gentles
Elena Gostic
Jen and Sky Groden
Frank and Sarah Hamlin
Jean Hanson
Carolyn and Gary Huber
Jennifer Johnson
Christine Henke Mueller
Julie and Daniel Hershman
Margaret Lawler
Paul Lawler
Johnny B. McKenzie
Kristin and Michael McNamara
Alison Morris
St. Patrick Catholic Church/St. Vincent De Paul
Dilip and Priti Patel
Travis Pew
Chris Roemer
Kellyn Slone
Julie and Marshall Thompson, Jr.
Colin White
Kevin Will
Camille Wilson
Bridge Builder: $100+
Amy Abrams
Mildred Acosta
Kristin Aiello
Sabreen Alikhan
Anonymous
Anonymous
Anonymous
Anonymous
Anonymous
Anonymous
James Anderson
Nancy Anderson
Robert J. Anderson
Jorge and Montseratt Arpa
Christopher Bartz
The Began Family
Dawn Benbow
Lance Bertrand
Reid and Amy Bierer
Janna Bischoff
Christian Blomquist
Ethan Bloomberg
Tammy Winn-Bocher
Caroline Boetzelen
Josh Bohnen
Krishna Boodram
Amy and Liam Bordoni
Jessica Brandstetter
Karen Jape Braun
Laurie Briggs
Jackson D. Brown
Chad Buchaklian
Theresa Buda
Devon Burden
Walid and M. Burhani
M Kimberly Burman
Dennis Callanan
Marguerite Morgan-Cargo
Misty Taylor Chaves
Douglas Choi
Sudhir Chopra
Jim and Donna Christol
Martha Clark
Adam Click
Chris A Code
Thomas Cogsil
Jennifer L. Cohen
Sherry Coker
Yvette Coursey
Sue Crooks
Peter D’Angelo
John P. and Edna O. Dameron
Bindi Dharia
Evelyn Dobson
David Domann
John Downey
Catherine Dzendzera
Lee Edwards
Ellen Ehrlich
David Eng-Wong
Monique Eriksen
Diane Falk
Joyce Farling
Elizabeth O. Feldman
Tiffany Felician
Sue Ann Fox
Michael Franco
Kathrine Fridholm
Robert Gass
Sandra Gass
Mark Gilbert
Martha Gilbert
Daniel Goggin
Marianne and Harvey Gold
Matt and Kathryn Goldberger
Douglas Gorman
Leila Green
Brennan Grogan
James Grusecki
Allan Hamby
Brian Hammer
Elizabeth Harris
Kathy Higa
Dee Hilfiger
Madeleine Seville Hilkey
Cory Hill
Nancy Hill
Roy Hines
Lee Hooks
Robert Horton
Steve Hunt
Matthew Inbusch
Benjamin Isaacson
Elizabeth Van Itallie
Octavia Jabali
Robert Jacoby
Barbara Jaffe
Dana Jaasund
Judy Johanson
Chrystal Jones
Amanda Kaminsky
Susan Kamp
Sarah Kasher
Scott Kattenbraker
Katie Kempff
Frank and Kim Kearny
John Kempff
Jennifer Klein
Samantha Koches
Kathy Kornblum
Andrew Krumholz
Richard Krumholz
Marcia Jacobwitz Lederman
Scott Lockhart
Corrine Lyon
Andre Madison
Mark and Madeline Madison
Donna Mahoney
Tara Mason
John McAvoy
Max McCord
Everett McKinney
Sheralyn Meek and Thomas Williamson
Sue Mehok
Haley Merritt
Christine Meserve
Jean Meyers
Richard J. Morey
Carla Morris
Leslie Murphy
Ann Murray
Timothy Murray
Anne Myers
Scott Myers
Carla Neumann
Danielle Newman
Lora Nickels
Northside Kiwanis Club
Denise Null
Stephen O’Bryan
HF O’Loughlin
David O’Neil
Daniel Ochsner
Kim Ogadhoh
Ruth Ostrom-Becker
Brian Patterson
Lyn San Pedro
Jeffrey G. and Lisa A. Pereles
Cordelia Persen
Anne-Marie Peterson
Ruth Petzold
Robert Pfaff
Kristen Phillips
Beth Pier
Dan and Tom Pier
James Pier
Joseph Pikiewicz
Dawn Pitts
Todd Poisson
Justin Puya
Peter Rachleff
Margaret Rafferty
Karen Randolph
Katharine Raphael
Azadeh Rashidi
Caroline Razook
Erica Razook
Linda and Ron Ream
Linda R. Reifschneider
Ashlee Richman
Wilson Rickerson
Robert Rickert
Andres Rojas
Elisabeth and Jules Romfh
Alexandra Sanguinetti
Julia Sanna
Grace Scarola
Jay Scarola
Gretchen Schaefer
Karen Schneider
Stacey Schuman
Valerie and Schuster
Jane Scott
Paul Scott
Debbie Searcy
Kori Searcy
William Searcy
Robert Seidel
Burt Seifman
Jay Selvig
Alexandra Sexton-Milligan
Ebby Shiroya
Sarbjit S. and Sukhdeep Sidhu
Eunice Simindu
Eban Singer
Linda Siris
Laura Sminkey
Donald J. Smith Jr.
Carlton Snead
Eytan Solomon
Diana Stanley
Joshua Stastny
Sara Steele
Jerry H. Steinberg
Byron Stigge
Katherine Stringer
Angela Szuminski
H. F. Tang
Dan Tighe
Ian Toner
Hansel Tookes
Matthew Tyson
Ashley Van Valkengurgh
Vonica H. Veal
Natasha Vora
Susan Wagemann
Lussy Wamboi
Terence Watterson
Debra Watkins
Joe Watson
Rene Webster
Joan Williams
Regina Wilkinson
Diane Wilson
Julia Wolfe
Allison Worthington
Jennifer Yang
Helga Ying, Jonah Levy and Family
Elizabeth Young
Laura Young
Catherine A. Zahalka-Salazar
Chuck Zahalka
Zakaado Enterprises
Joseph Zeidman
Chester Zientek
Kara Zuaro
Julaine Zuelzke