Learners at Garissa School for the Deaf are set to benefit from improved learning, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities, as well as greater access to digital learning opportunities, following the launch of a Sh12.7 million infrastructure project by Airtel Money Kenya, through the Airtel Africa Foundation in partnership with ChildFund Kenya.
The project, implemented under the Building Brighter Futures initiative, will support inclusive education by constructing four new classrooms to accommodate the school’s growing student population, building an ICT centre to help learners develop digital skills and access new learning opportunities and improving water and sanitation infrastructure.
Specifically, the facilities will include modern ablution blocks with separate toilet and bathroom facilities for boys and girls, an extension of the water pipeline to improve access to water, an elevated water tank tower fitted with a 20,000-litre storage tank, a 20-point handwashing station to promote proper hygiene practices and a separate two-door sanitation facility for teachers.
“Our commitment with this project goes beyond infrastructure; it is about creating a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow and pursue their dreams. We believe that every child deserves access to quality education and the tools they need to realise their full potential,” said Airtel Money Kenya Acting Managing Director Bonke Michael during the launch.
Notably, the Garissa project forms part of the Sh62 million Building Brighter Futures initiative, which is expected to benefit more than 2,000 learners across four public schools in Baringo, Garissa and Wajir counties.
The initiative began in Baringo County, where Sh37 million was allocated to improve learning and WASH infrastructure at Marigat Integrated Day and Boarding Primary School and Marigat Special School for the Visually Impaired.
On her part, Fatuma Omar, Curriculum Support Officer – Special Needs Education, Garissa County, maintained that the initiative is about creating opportunities, promoting inclusion, and investing in the future of Kenyan learners.
“As a Curriculum Support Officer in Special Needs Education, I recognise that a conducive learning environment is essential to effective curriculum implementation and ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to reach their full potential,” she reaffirmed.
Meanwhile, the initiative reflects Airtel Money Kenya through the Airtel Africa Foundation and ChildFund Kenya’s shared commitment to advancing inclusive education and improving access to essential learning infrastructure.
By investing in facilities that respond to learners’ diverse needs, especially those living with disabilities, the partners aim to help create school environments where every child has the opportunity to learn, build confidence, and work towards a brighter future.
By Michael Omondi
