)
Nairobi, Kenya
In the Mukuru slum in Kenya, 700,000 people live in extreme poverty. Basic necessities like electricity, clean water, and adequate sanitation are scarce. Children living here face significant disadvantages.
Oliver* grew up in Mukuru. He was enrolled at Ruben Primary School at the Ruben Centre as a child, but the daily hardships made effective learning seem almost impossible. His family struggled with poverty, leading to food insecurity, a lack of basic school supplies, and inadequate housing. However, Oliver was determined, and he persevered through his education. Oliver’s hard work paid off when he excelled in his exams.
Graduating school marked the beginning of a new chapter—one where Oliver would give back to his community. Recognising the critical gaps in resources and support that once hindered his education, Oliver became a key figure in an alumni-led initiative to mentor and tutor students. Alongside fellow alum, he dedicated himself to improving academic outcomes by providing extra support and resources to learners.
Oliver’s work wasn’t limited to the classroom; the alum focused on targeted interventions and mentoring sessions during holidays to help students build confidence and improve their academic performance.
The results of their efforts have been remarkable. With support from the Edmund Rice Foundation Australia (ERFA) and the dedication of the alums, the top 50 students mentored by Oliver and his team saw a substantial increase in their national assessment results. Students like Betty and David, who had once struggled in the face of overwhelming odds, secured places in prestigious national schools—a testament to the power of education and support. The alums’ work with 160 emerging learners also improved academic performance and overall school morale.
Oliver reflects on his journey with a deep sense of fulfilment: “Being part of the alumni program has shaped my career and empowered me to impact lives positively. I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformation in our students when given the right support and resources.”
Oliver’s story is a shining example of sustainable development in action. It’s about more than just surviving in the slums of Mukuru; it’s about thriving and lighting the path for others to follow. In a community where the odds are often stacked against its youth, Oliver has shown that even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome when provided with access to education and support.
*Not their real name
In Mukuru, many children struggle to learn because of poverty, limited resources, absenteeism, and behavioural challenges. Without quality teaching, safe learning environments, and family support, they risk falling behind.
The Ruben Centre Education Project, delivered at the AEF Ruben Primary School, is changing this by providing quality, holistic education in one of Nairobi’s most marginalised communities.
