TLP’s EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
What are you most excited to learn about?
The beauty of this question lives in the diversity of responses it elicits.
Whether its computers and technology, financial literacy, or sexual and reproductive health, at The Leo Project (TLP), our educational programs are electrified by our students’ enthusiasm. Our learners are keen to explore new subjects and indulge their curiosity. In addition to unveiling or reinforcing their passions, we empower students with knowledge and skills that further their independence. TLP programs address educational voids to promote a holistic learning experience for students across Laikipia County.
To achieve our mission, we partner with organizations that embody a core tenet of TLP - that equitable access to education is a basic human right. From the girl-centric rock stars at Global Glow to the local reproductive and sexual health powerhouse, Pathways Policy Institute - our partnerships are the bread and butter of TLP’s sustainability model. TLP’s partners have established track records of success reinforced by tried and true curriculum. We admire the achievements of our fellow changemakers, such as the internationally-celebrated heroes of digital access, TechLit Africa, and strive to incorporate their progressive initiatives into our partner schools. Through trusted collaborations, we are able to deliver classroom experiences that improve students’ personal and professional outcomes.
Our inclusive educational model positions students to thrive by opening doors of possibility. In a nation where unemployment is a principal concern, Kenyan students require tangible skills to stand out in the limited job market. Essential to becoming competitive candidates is a strong foundation in digital literacy. When equipped with technological aptitude, students amplify their potential to earn a secure livelihood. Teachers at our partner schools, like Mr. Waiganjo at Muramati Primary, have affirmed the life-changing power of our educational contributions -
“As I reflect on our journey, I am super proud of my learners at Muramati Primary. Through the magic of technology, our students have evolved into tech-savvy wizards! Thanks to The Leo Project's partnership with incredible organizations like Tech-Lit Africa and Science in a Suitcase, our children have unlocked a world of possibilities. And, let's not forget the day when young Denis, our coding prodigy, mastered the art of split-screen coding and had us all in awe of his multitasking skills! With every line of code they write, our students are scripting their own success stories and I couldn't be any happier!”
We are tackling digital disparity one student at a time, hopeful that our training will inspire a new generation of software engineers, coders, and information technologists. To date, TLP has supported 13,571 digital literacy learners - which we intend to double over the next year. Our beneficiaries include students at our cohort of partner schools, members of our Leo Local educational hub for young professionals, as well as adult community members. Through specialized learning, students not only elevate themselves, they become transformative resources to their community.
Our success as an organization requires honoring our students’ strengths, facilitating opportunities to exercise those strengths, and encouraging thoughtful cooperation. At our computer clinic we sponsor a network of skill-sharing, coaching participants in diagnostics and technical assistance. This training fosters peer-to-peer support rather than reinforcing dependence on our teachers. Further teamwork transpires at The Connect Innovation Lab, our Leo Local entrepreneurship program. Utilizing this venue for introducing ideas and workshopping business concepts, aspiring entrepreneurs receive constructive feedback and positive reinforcement from fellow students and experienced mentors.
The emergent relationships and mentorships reflect the interconnection and sustainability of our initiatives. In 2023, we identified an opportunity to promote inter-school engagement through organizing joint graduation ceremonies for our sexual and reproductive health program participants. Celebrating collectively allowed students from different schools to connect with new peers and exchange details of their class experiences.
Many of our students share similar tales of their difficulties with menstrual hygiene management. We continue to support students with sanitary pad provisions courtesy of our partners at Zana Africa. Since TLP’s inception, our sexual and reproductive health programs have positioned girls and boys to take control of their wellness. Our newest partnership with the Zeitz Foundation has allowed us to expand to the Segera community with an inaugural cohort of 20 students. While some of our success is quantifiable - for example, we celebrated 130 graduates of our Global GLOW program and 118 graduates of Better Boys in 2023 - the confidence engendered through program participation is beyond measure.
Nancy, the Head Teacher at Muramati Primary School told us,
“We have seen confidence grow in these girls, even academically. The program has helped our girls speak out and show their presence not only in the classroom but also in the co-curricular activities.”
One byproduct of learners’ heightened self-esteem is strong decision-making. We promote autonomy by equipping students with the critical knowledge to make informed choices about their health. By growing students’ understanding of sexual safety, we are determined to reduce the number of teenage pregnancies and related school drop-outs.
As Mr. Koina, Principal at Naibor Secondary School observed,
“Gradually, we are reducing the number of pregnancies in our schools and we are grateful that this program mentors the girls in the right direction and equips them with all information they need to stay safe, focused and to take care of themselves and their bodies.” .
Teachers, students, parents and community members continuously offer feedback that evidences our ability to influence change, enlighten and inspire. Before our arrival, the rural communities we serve lacked access to technology and reliable internet as well as sexual and reproductive health resources. Adamant in our belief that birthplace shouldn’t be a determinant of student success, we are taking steps to address educational voids and distribute high-quality resources.
Of heightened focus in 2023 has been our environmental education and conservation programs. The Leo Project was awarded the Mazingira Conservation Fund by Laikipia Wildlife Forum, allowing us to train 25 youths on climate change mitigation, adaptation and resilience. Our school Conservation Clubs remain active, their progress resulting in a new tree nursery at Muramati Primary School. Made possible by our partners at Elevate Destinations and El Karama Wildlife Sanctuary, we traveled with 50 Conservation Club students to El Karama. Throughout the trip, students learned about recycling and organic farming as well as renewable energy.
Our efforts to engage the greater community in responsible environmental practices are ongoing. In 2023, our annual Safisha Jua Kali event gathered 1450 community members for a town clean-up. Education in proper waste management and disposal is a critical focus of our climate change activism. Currently, we are working with Ol Pejeta Conservancy and the County Government of Laikipia to install 20 permanent waste bins around Nanyuki town.
Manifest in our program expansion, new partnerships, and fresh initiatives, TLP is constantly growing our impact. While we prioritize sustainable organizational growth, our goal is to be dynamic and adapt to the needs of our community. In 2024, we will continue to expand our reach, supporting more students and community members while refining our practices to assure maximum efficacy.