EFAC

2016-04-13T21:13:00.005-04:00

Congratulations to the Class of 2016!

On March 3, students across Kenya were both excited and apprehensive to learn the results of the 2015 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Examination (KCSE), which were released by Education Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i that day.

We are proud to say that EFAC scholars out-performed their peers by a very sizable margin, with 100% of our students qualifying for university placements. EFAC scholars averaged a B+ on the KCSE, while the national performance average was a D+.

“I felt so happy, and I am hopeful that I will accomplish my career goals,” said Tabitha Nasambu, who scored 73 points (B+). She attributed her performance to “determination, discipline and encouragement from the teachers,” and looks forward to studying nursing at university. Following graduation from Naivasha Girls’ School, Tabitha has been giving back to her community by volunteering at Ortum Girls’ School, her former primary school, where she teaches mathematics and Kiswahili to seventh and eighth grade students.

Dominic Munyao, who completed secondary school at Rongai Boys’, scored 70 points (B+) on the KCSE. He hopes to study computer science at university, and attributed his strong performance to “being focused, hard work and cooperating with teachers.” He also is volunteering at Ikanga primary school during break, teaching science and social studies to grades seven and eight.

EFAC’s most improved scholar is Sheila Woki, who scored 61 points (B) on the KCSE, up considerably from the D she earned on the mock test. Sheila shares, “I used to feel that I have disappointed my sponsors, but I consistently worked extra hard.” Passionate about farming, Sheila plans to study Agri-economics at university. She is currently teaching mathematics at Naivasha DEB primary school for her community service placement.

Thomas Mosioma emerged as the top EFAC scholar, scoring 75 points (A-) on the KCSE. In a phone interview conducted by the EFAC team at Africa Nazarene University, Thomas said, “I felt happy, even though I had hoped to perform better than this. I want to be an inspiration to others.” He attributes his sterling performance to being disciplined and hard-working, and is grateful for the mentorship and help he received from teachers at St. Mary’s Boys School. Thomas plans to study corporate communications, and currently is volunteering at Nandi Referral Hospital as an assistant in the medical store.

On behalf of the EFAC community, sponsors and staff, we congratulate the Class of 2016 on their amazing accomplishments. They have made all of us very proud, and we look forward to the next four years with hope and optimism for their futures.

EFAC SCHOLARS PERFORM WELL IN 2015 KCSE EXAMINATIONS

2016-04-01T16:21:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to the class or 2016

On March 3, 2015 cheers of jubilation were felt across the country as the Education Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Fred Matiang'i released the results of the 2015 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Examination(KCSE. EFAC lowest grade was C+, which is the minimum university entry qualification. While the general performance for the country was quite low, we are proud to say that our scholars have scored well. An analysis of EFAC scholars’ performance in comparison to the national performance indicates that EFAC central tendency is a B+ as compared to the national D+.

EFAC scholar performance in 2016

“I felt so happy and I am hopeful that I will accomplish my career goals,” said Tabitha Nasambu. She scored a B plus of 73 points. She attributed her performance to “trust in God, determination, discipline and encouragement from the teachers.” Her passion is to study nursing at the university. She is doing her community service at Ortum Girls which is her former primary school as a way of giving back to her community.

“I am currently teaching Mathematics and Kiswahili subjects to class seven and eight pupils,” she said. “I would like to study computer science at the university” said Dominic Munyao. He scored a B plus of 70 points. He attributed his performance to “being focused, hard work and cooperating with teachers.” He is currently doing his community service at his former primary school. “I am teaching science and social studies subjects to class seven and eight pupils at Ikanga Primary School.”

Sheila Woki emerged as the most improved scholar. She was admitted in the EFAC program with score of 314 on the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE), a D in her mocks and surprises us with a B in KCSE. Sheila shares, “I used to feel that I have disappointed my sponsors but I consistently worked extra hard. I have learned that when you put God in your studies, he will not let you down,” Sheila is passionate about farming and she is looking forward to study Agri-economics at the university. She is currently teaching mathematics at Naivasha DEB primary school for her community service placement. EFAC community, sponsors and stakeholders congratulate EFAC Class of 2016. They have done us proud and we look forward to the next four years with hope and optimism.

This year, all of our scholars have qualified for university education. Thomas Mosioma emerged as the top EFAC scholar. He scored an A- with 75 points. In a phone interview conducted by the EFAC team at Africa Nazarene University, Thomas said, “I felt happy even though I had expected to perform better than this. I wanted to make an inspiration story out of myself." He attributed his sterling performance to “being disciplined, obedient, hard working, and to mentorship and consultation from teachers.” Thomas plans to study corporate communication at the university. He is currently doing his community service in Nandi Referral hospital as an assistant in the medical store.

Sponsor a student for $500 a year - Double your dollars and your impact.

2015-10-09T12:37:00.001-04:00

This October a generous donor is matching 10 four-year sponsorships. Join us in sponsoring a student and giving the gift of education to a high school or university student in Kenya.

To have your scholarship dollars matched and sponsor a student for $500/year, email us at info@educationforallchildren.org or go to our Donate Page and under "Donation Dedication" tell us that you would like to participate in the matching funds campaign and what gender you would like to support - or if you would like to support a specific student, this is a good place to let us know.

For more detailed information, contact us at info@educationforallchildren.org or give us a call at 315-262-6201.

In sub-Saharan Africa 10 million children drop out of school every year.

Bernard is a Form I student at Makueni Boys
School. He dreams of becoming an electrical
engineer and bringing electricity to
communities across Kenya.

EFAC is working to challenge this statistic through access to education and comprehensive education-to-employment programs in Kenya for vulnerable boys and girls.

This year EFAC has 6 bright students who need funding to complete their high school education. To see their profiles, or to select a student, you can visit EFAC’s secondary sponsorship page by clicking here.

Irene is a first year student at Moi University
Pursuing a Bachelors' Degree in Education.
Irene hopes to work with students
with special needs in her future.

Did you know that every additional year of school that a woman attends school increases her wages by an average of 12%.

Our university and diploma students receive mentoring and hands-on employment training to enhance their degree programs. EFAC scholars select academic fields that will allow them to serve their communities and country and our EFAC scholars, both male and female are actively involved in giving back to their communities.

There are currently nine unfunded university students who are in need of funds to continue their education. To see EFAC's current list of unfunded university students, please visit EFAC's post secondary sponsorship page by clicking here.

To sponsor a student for $500/year, go to our Donate page and under "Donation Dedication" tell us that would like to participate in the matching funds campaign and what gender you would like to support -- or if you would like to support a specific student, this is a good place to let us know as well. For more detailed information, contact us at info@educationforallchildren.org or give us a call us at 315-262-6201.

Thank you for giving the gift of education.

2015-10-01T10:13:00.000-04:00

Education For All Children (EFAC) has been selected to join The Clinton Foundation’s No Ceilings Initiative and the Brookings Institution’s Center for Universal Education as a member of the Girls CHARGE Collaborative. The collaborative of more than 50 partner organizations aims to reach more than15 million girls worldwide by 2019. New partnerships were announced by former Prime Minister of Australia Julia Gillard during an event hosted at the annual meeting of the Clinton Global Initiative on September 29, 2015.

As an official Girls CHARGE partner EFAC will support and enhance two major priority areas: access to education programs for girls and transitioning programs for girls to ensure successful transitions to higher education, leadership and employment.

EFAC co-founder Rod Van Sciver shared his thoughts on this new and important partnership, "EFAC is thrilled to be a CHARGE partner. It is only though true collaboration with like-minded organizations that we can all reach our shared goal of seeing the women of this world reach their innate potential."

ABOUT GIRLS CHARGE 
Launched as a 2014 Clinton Global Initiative Commitment to Action and championed by Former Prime Minister of Australia Ms. Julia Gillard, the Clinton Foundation, and the Brookings Institution, Girls CHARGE brings together over 50 public, private, and civil society organizations and has committed more than $800 million to reach more than 15 million girls in 40 countries by 2019. Addressing issues of school access, school safety, quality learning, life transitions beyond secondary schooling, and local leadership for girls’ education, Girls CHARGE continues to grow and serves a community to share best practices, research, learnings, and monitoring and evaluation models.

From Humble Beginnings: A Student Perspective

2015-09-24T15:55:00.000-04:00

A blog post by Ishmael Ngei, EFAC Scholar

Ishmael joined the EFAC family in 2011 and was selected as an EFAC scholar for his ambition, hard working nature, and strong academic performance. Born in Kitui district in Eastern Kenya and the fifth born of eight children, Ismael's parents struggled to provide basic needs to their large family. When his primary school teacher brought him the EFAC application, a world of possibility opened for this young man who had not previously considered continuing in school.

Innovative, entrepreneurial and still deeply engaged with his home community, Ishmael is a student at Taita Taveta Univeristy College where he studying for a Bachelor of Business and Information Technology. In the post below, Ishmael shares his perspective on his EFAC experience in high school and the leadership skills he has developed as an EFAC scholar.

My name is Ishmael Ngei from Katulani village, Kitui County. I schooled at Rongai Agricultural & Technical Secondary School through EFAC sponsorship. I am currently studying for a Bachelor of Business and Information Technology at Taita Taveta University. I am delighted to share my high school and community service experience as an EFAC scholar.

I strived to balance my academics, leadership and participation in co–curricular activities. I joined the school teams and played midfield in basketball and table tennis. I joined the wildlife club and we planted and took care of many trees in the school compound. We enjoyed privileges including visiting National parks and game reserves including Lake Nakuru National park. As a student leader, I acted as a student government advisor and Christian union Prayer coordinator and later on I was elected as the school president. I coordinated the student government to deal with discipline issues and as a result there were few disciplinary cases. Academically, I was on the list of top 20 best performing students in the class and I was also able to serve in a variety of leadership positions, which helped me to learn and practice virtues of honesty, hardwork, service to others, management and record keeping. Outside of school, I attended Kenya Student Christian Fellowship annual camps and EFAC workshops throughout my four years in high school. These opportunities allowed me to acquire self-confidence and gain a sense of empowerment.

During my final year of secondary school, I was awarded Kshs 4,000 from the school administration. With this money, I went home after doing my KCSE and bought a goat; reared it and later sold it in order to pay school fees for my sister, Janet. Kitui County is quite dry and people in the region experiences water challenges. The pupils fetch clean water from a water vendor and I had countless thoughts on how the water challenge could be settled in my neighborhood community. With this in mind, I composed a poem entitled "Water the Confusion” and I taught it to the students at the local school who later recited it in front of the Governor of Kitui County during his visit to Katulani. He was moved and he promised that the county government will dig a bore hole which will serve as a source of water to the school and the community. Once this project is completed, it will be a lifelong legacy.

I remain grateful to my sponsor through EFAC and mentors. My experience in community service was quite challenging but educative. At home, I assisted in carrying out duties like fetching water, cultivating in the garden and grazing. I also did a voluntary work as a teacher and patron in Nzukini Primary school from January to September, 2015. I taught English and Mathematics to primary school students. This gave me an opportunity to influence the pupils to speak national languages at the school. As a result, the pupils improved significantly English and Mathematics during end of term examinations.

EFAC SCHOLARS ADMITTED TO JOIN VARIOUS GOVERNMENT PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES

2015-08-11T12:20:00.000-04:00

Blog post by Peter King'ori, a member of EFAC's Kenya Team

EFAC's class or 2015 is headed to University in September

Students who performed very well on the 2014 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) national examination have been admitted to join public universities and colleges and will start their studies this month.

According to the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) board, only 80,000 students (out of 480,000 test takers) were given one of these coveted spots.

The board set the cut-off point for placement to degree programs at B, a score of 60 points for male candidates, and B-, a score of 58 points for female candidates. Medicine is the most competitive program across all universities, and other highly competitive courses include dental science, engineering (civil and electrical), architecture, pharmacy, and actuarial science.

Out of 49 EFAC scholars who sat for the national examinations, 47 have successfully been admitted to join public learning institutions. Some of the top EFAC scholars include Drusillah Mogire who has been placed to study Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at Maseno University; Shadrack Kiprotich has been placed to study Bachelor of Actuarial science at Karatina University; and, David Nyangaresi has been placed to study Diploma in Civil Engineering at Kabete Technical Training Institute.

Scholars expressed their gratitude to EFAC as they received the news of their admission. Carolyne Musyoka who will be studying a Bachelor of Law at the University of Nairobi said, “I am so happy and look forward to studying law. I have practiced the art of public speaking and I am convinced that verbal battles in the courtroom aren’t a worry at all.” Sharon Muhando who has been admitted to study Bachelor of Medical Microbiology said, “I love medical microbiology because I am interested in research which will give me an opportunity to help the society find solutions to their health problems.”

Bridge to Employment: Reflections on Employability, Growth and Relationships in Kenya

2015-06-10T12:49:00.000-04:00

Founders Rod and Nancy Van Sciver and Board Chair, Corporate partnerships Jay Dinkel attend first Bridge To Employment Workshop.

Nancy, Rod and Jay joined 120 secondary graduates and 11 major corporations at the first university workshop. It was a fantastic success for our university students as they underwent mock interviews and prepared elevator speeches and resumes. Some of the students actually landed internships during their mock interviews.

EFAC developed its new workshop curriculum in conjunction with its Kenyan Corporate Advisory Board with representatives from Unilever, Nestles, SC Johnson, IBM and Litemore LLC. EFAC students learn employability skills and prepare for the future. With the help of international and national companies we believe EFAC students will continue to beat the odds.

Speed networking with corporate guest

As board member Jay Dinkel noted,

"the social aspects of EFAC were as stunning and impressive as the skills EFAC students demonstrate." The students share an incredible bond, and for many, EFAC has become like a family. Nowhere was this more noticeable than at the Saturday night dinner dance at the conclusion of the workshop. The hall was decorated with balloons and bright crepe paper, and the night felt like a cross between a 1950's prom and reunion of old friends. Everyone enjoyed karaoke, poetry, dancing, hugs and thousands of smartphone photos, all followed by a surprise celebration of Nancy's birthday. For me, this was one of the trip's highlights, as I witnessed how special this group has become."

Surprise - EFAC celebrates Nancy's birthday

Jay catching up with Joshua at the Employment Workshop in May

EFAC is building a strong alumni base that someday will be our best support. One of EFAC's first scholars, Shirlene said it best when she said, "EFAC is family, just being together makes me feel like we are headed somewhere."

EFAC's model of partnership and developmental workshops have gained some attention in the press both here in New Hampshire and in Kenya. See what the Kenyan media is saying about our work in the People Daily and Standard Digital and learn more about EFAC's unique
partnership and the women who make that partnership possible at NH Magazine.

LAUNCH OF THE ‘CAREER READINESS AND EMPOWERMENT TRAINING’

2015-05-06T13:52:00.000-04:00

Blog post by Peter King'ori, a member of EFAC's Kenyan Team

Prof Leah Marangu welcomes Nancy and
Rod Van Sciver to the CRET Launch

On May 1, 2015 the collaboration between Africa Nazarene University (ANU) and Education for All Children (EFAC) advanced to a new level as Prof. Leah Marangu, Vice –Chancellor, ANU and Nancy Van Sciver, together with her husband Rod, founders of EFAC joined hands to launch Career Readiness and Empowerment Training (CRET) under the theme “nurturing character and career development.” The launch was received with cheers of jubilations by over 130 scholars who are currently beneficiaries of EFAC scholarship and mentorship in post-secondary education. The CRET curriculum is a four year program that seeks to equip the scholars with skills and an education that leverages them to be competitive and assertive in modern day professions.

Speaking during the launch, Prof. Leah Marangu asserted that “this dream was not in vain. You are the candle that is going to ignite others wherever you go.” She challenged the scholars to “inculcate discipline, determination, hard work and a trust in God” in their journey of academic excellence as well as when preparing for work related responsibilities. Nancy Van Sciver recalled the genesis of EFAC asserting that the launch of CRET was one of the program’s milestones that will play a leading role in transforming lives as well as prepare the scholars to acquire the soft skills which are required in the modern job market. “Since the conception of EFAC we have heard stories of difficulty being transformed to stories of great hope.” she said as she acknowledged her dream to change the lives of the less privileged in Kenyan society who will ultimately change the African continent.

The Guest Speaker, Arch. Lee Karuri, Director of Dimensions group and Chairman of Ethics and Practice, Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors of Kenya shared his journey of success from his humble childhood to self-independence. He pointed out that “EFAC is just a bridge to your future of self- independence. It will spark your potential and give you a path to success.” He urged the scholars to “depend on God, invest in your education, career and character.”

Guest Speaker, Arch Lee Karuri sharing
his keynote speech on Building Independence

The 21st Century employers desires to employ competent employees who can propel the vision and mission of the organization or company to greater heights. This requires the caliber of an employer’s prospective employees to be competent academically, professionally and socially. Furthermore, they should possess a wide range of soft skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication skills, interpersonal skills, positive attitude, problem solving and a strong work ethic. The CRET program aims to enhance scholars skills and further develop relevant competencies including, self-awareness, financial literacy, reproductive health, career knowledge and preparation, employability skills, leadership, and survival skills which will enable them to be productive in the modern job market. The program also allows the scholars to participate in community transformation at a personal level and develop their servant leadership skills through philanthropic and community driven initiatives.

Prior to the launch, the workshop commenced on April 19, 2015 with a group of 48 scholars who completed their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in year 2014 and they are currently looking forward to joining universities/colleges in September. They were joined by a group of 86 Scholars on April 30, 2015 who are currently pursuing their Degree/Diploma courses in institutions of higher learning from across the country for a two days comprehensive CRET workshop. The scholars had an opportunity to listen, interact, and share their views/ideas with different professionals/career experts who works in both public and private sector.

EFAC scholars pose for a group photo with stakeholders,
guests, mentors and facilitators

The workshop was of great importance to the scholars as they testified about its impact in their personal and professional development. “The interaction with different individuals from various firms is so helpful in my professional development. I now know how to behave during an interview,” said Pauline Sinyok, a student at Kenyatta University. William Muchui, a student at Thika School of Medical Sciences testified that “I have learned how to negotiate for a job and what to cover when preparing a Curriculum Vitae.” Mercy Obiewa, a student at Rongo University said “it was a wonderful chance and I have learned how to market myself in order to be the most outstanding among the millions of job applicants.” Joan Naeni, a student at Technical University of Kenya pointed out that the “elevator speech and speed mentoring session has made me really evaluate myself and learn how to brand myself.” EFAC’s Kenya team would like to thank all the EFAC sponsors, stakeholders and facilitators who dedicated their time and resources to ensure the success of this workshop.

EFAC SCHOLARS PERFORM VERY WELL IN 2014 KCSE EXAMINATIONS

2015-03-09T11:24:00.000-04:00

Blog post by Peter King'ori, a member of EFAC's Kenyan Team

Congratulations to the EFAC Class of 2015

On March, 3 2015 cheers were heard across the country as the Education Cabinet Secretary, Prof. Jacob Kaimenyi released the results of 2014 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations. Out of 483,630 candidates who sat for the examinations, 3,073 candidates scored an overall mean grade of A. “Overall mean grade of A by gender shows that 2,133 (69.4%) male candidates and 940 (30.6%) female candidates attained this highest grade,” said Prof. Jacob Kaimenyi. He also pointed out that 149,717 candidates scored the minimum university entry qualification of C+.

Among the candidates who received their KCSE results were 49 EFAC scholars. The graduating class has done exemplary well as 2 students managed to score a mean grade of A; 13 students scored a mean grade of A minus; 11 students scored a mean grade of B plus and 15 students scored a mean grade of B. And, we are so pleased to announce that all 49 scholars managed to score a mean grade of C plus and above, the minimum university entry qualification.

Drusilla Mogire emerged as the top EFAC scholar. She scored an A plain of 82 points. She attributed her sterling performance to “being focused, hard work, determination and mentorship.” Her future career is to study medicine at the university as she stated, “I have a passion for medicine and I had to work extremely hard in all subjects and especially in English.” She is currently doing her community service in a local health Centre.

“I would like to study civil engineering at the university,” said Rose Winnie Nekesa. She scored an A minus of 77 points. As an aspiring engineer, she advises the high school students to “not take their education for granted but to work hard and plan their time well.” She is currently doing her community service at Mater Hospital.

“I would like to study computer science at the University,” said Peter Mwikya. He scored an A minus of 79 points. He attributes his stellar performance to “hard work, determination and a trust in God.”

“I thank God that EFAC stood with me and paid my school fees. I would like to study actuarial science at the university,” said Antony Mulwa. He scored an A minus of 76 points. He is currently teaching biology and mathematics at a local secondary school.

Jackline Cherotich attributes her exemplary performance to “being confident, courageous and a trust in God.” She scored an A minus of 79 points. She would like to study actuarial science at the University. She advises high school students to “have confidence in whatever they do and cooperate with teachers.”

Other scholars who have done well include Mercy Lukaya who scored an A minus, Caroline Musyoka who scored an A plain and Richard Amkonyole who scored a B plus. Mercy had to battle stiff competition in her school and plan her time well as she spent one month at home after going through an eye surgery.

Richard was the most improved student among all EFAC Scholars. "My highlight and jubilation was Richard, when the results came in. He was the first student I noticed, and he has made us proud," said Godfrey Sakwa, EFAC's contact teacher at St. Mary's Boys. His story is heartbreaking; he is an orphan and he spent almost all the break holidays in school since it was the only place he felt comfortable to stay. He utilized his last two terms in high schools to literally improve his performance from grade C to B+. "

Together as the EFAC fraternity, sponsors and stakeholders, we join our hands to congratulate EFAC Class of 2015.

EFAC Awards 40 High School Scholarships in 2015

2015-02-16T11:49:00.002-05:00

Recently 40 new students were awarded EFAC scholarships to attend high school. As part of the admissions process, ANU staff made some home visits to deliver the good news. Here is an account of their visits written by EFAC staff member, Peter Kingori.

Eric Wainaina and his mother in Kahara Village

Chants, jubilation and tears of joy were felt among the parents, guardians, teachers and relatives of 2015 EFAC applicants as they received the good news that they had received education scholarship from the EFAC office, Africa Nazarene University.

‘I pray to God to bless you so that you can continue to empower the needy,’ said Eric Wainana. Eric lives with his mother in a rental house at Kahara village in Kajiado Country. He used to spend three hours per day to walk to and from school. He scored 371 marks on the 8th grade exit exam (Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE)). Despite his poor background, he is determined to work hard in high school and transform the misfortune of his family. He praised his science teacher for being a role model and mentor to him. He has joined form one at St. Mary’s Boys Secondary school through an EFAC scholarship.

Tabitha at her house
in Ongata Rongai

“My mother struggled to pay for my fees at primary school. It was mostly paid by well-wishers,” said Tabitha Naserian. Tabitha lives with her mother in a rental single-room, iron-sheet house in Ongata Rongai. When she was in primary school, she missed many days because of lack of fees. Despite her needy background, she scored 375 marks on the KCPE. Her dream is to become an accountant. She has joined form one at Vanessa Grant Girls.

"It is like a miracle for me to be awarded an EFAC scholarship. I know that if I am helped, I will achieve my goals,” said Faith Ndanu. Faith lives with her mother and sister in Katoloni village in Machakos County. Like Tabitha, Faith was sent home quite often in middle school due to lack of school fees. Despite the challenges, she scored 391 marks in KCPE. She is thankful to the teachers who kept encouraging her to have a positive attitude. She has joined form one at Vanessa Grant Girls.

Benard Mwengi with his teachers at the
EFAC office, Africa Nazarene University

Each of the EFAC 2015 successful applicants has a story to tell. For instance, Benard Mwengi, an orphan was the top student in his school. He was accompanied by his teachers to pick up his letter awarding him an educational scholarship from EFAC. He scored 376 marks in KCPE.

All of the Form One scholars have faced numerous hardships including lack of basic needs such as food and clothes. Listening to their narratives on how they used to go to school without taking breakfast, skipping the lunch meal and living with only one meal per day, but they remained hopeful.

With the promise of an education, they can wipe their tears and alter their trajectory of life. It is through the empowerment of an education that these scholars will grow up and bring a positive change in their communities and the nation at large. We are glad that EFAC in collaboration with Africa Nazarene University has granted education scholarship to 40 bright but needy students this year of 2015.

Transforming Lives Through Community Service

2015-02-10T15:33:00.005-05:00

by Caroline Ng'etich
EFAC University Graduate

Before I joined the EFAC family, life was too hard, terrible and hopeless. I grew up in Sirwa Village, Baringo County. I faced numerous challenges as a young girl but my desire to acquire education was greater than the fear of being a house wife. Prior to being admitted at Africa Nazarene University, I was herding my father’s cattle and goats. However, my desire for a brighter future was cut short after a successful completion of one academic semester at the University due to lack of tuition fee. I had to drop out and go back to my village. I stayed home for one year without any hope of resuming my studies.

Caroline Ng'etich and SMG Leaders

I am glad that EFAC came in my life and opened the golden gates for me. With EFAC support, I was able to resume my studies and complete my Bachelor’s degree successfully. EFAC impacted my life positively not only academically but also morally and socially as I acquired essential life skills during mentor workshops – we were always challenged to give back to the community. Thus, driven by the desire to mentor and empower young people in my community, I founded Sirwa Mentoring Group (SMG). It was not easy at the beginning but since I had a vision, I was determined to see it mature and touch one or two lives. I approached the college students from the area and they liked the idea and wanted to help out. We organized and sacrificed our resources to fund the first mentorship forum which attracted more than 250 students. This was overwhelming, and it was successful.

SMG 2014 Parent Session

Since then, most parents and students have changed their perspective about education. I was glad to witness the highest number of students who joined high school that year with an aim of being like Carol or my fellow college students. This mentorship has now become a yearly event in our community and surprisingly parents and leaders have pledged their support. In December 2014, we held our second mentorship event at Sore Primary school and it attracted youth in primary and secondary schools, form four leavers, college & university students, parents, leaders and academicians. I am happy that there are small changes which are taking place in my village - everyone is working hard to ensure their kids go to school. Besides that, my neighboring college students are taking up the mentorship challenge by starting small groups in their villages with the aim of transforming lives. This is a great multiple effect of SMG.

SMG 2014 Interactive Afternoon Session

Learning from Mother Teresa who once said “I cannot change the world alone but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples,” SMG gives me hope that the world will gradually change into a better place. A noble change starts with an individual who makes a positive change in someone’s life and that person impacts the same to someone else gradually. My passion is to make a difference in other people’s lives. I will use my abilities to fulfill my purpose here on earth. My next step is to organize a big event with the aim of nurturing student talents and help them realize that life is not all about books but being well-rounded.

As an EFAC Alumni, I am always thankful to the entire EFAC family; my brothers and sisters in college and high school, Sponsors and all mentors who have made me to be whom I am today. I will forever be grateful and will lift the EFAC flag wherever I go. Finally, I would like to encourage my fellow EFAC scholars that they do not need to have much in order to make a difference, all they need is a willing and caring heart.

What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead. — Nelson Mandela

Education is the Hope for Generations

2015-01-05T10:09:00.000-05:00

Blog post by Peter King'ori, a member of EFAC's Kenyan Team.

Visiting Students at Rongai Boys School

Education and empowerment provide hope for countless generations who live in abject poverty in both arid and semi-arid areas. Transforming lives in these regions requires various stakeholders who collaboratively work together to instill hope, dreams and change to the younger generations. Sylvester, an EFAC student attending Rongai Boys School, is an example of a student who is optimistic about the future as a result of such collaboration. Sylvester wanted an scholarship to secondary school so badly that he repeated class eight even after having sat for his Kenya Certificate for Primary Education (K.C.P.E.) and passed with high marks. He said recently, “I repeated standard eight with 353 marks since my mother had no money to take me to secondary school.”

A home constructed of local bricks and a thatched roof.

Sylvester is among the 28 scholars who are benefiting from EFAC education scholarship in Kitui County. These students live with their parents, siblings and guardians in areas such as Katulani, Ikanga, Matinyani and Ikutha. A recent home visit by the EFAC team found that small scale subsistence farming is the main source of income for most peasant farmers in these regions. The climate is characterized by dry seasons with minimal short rainfall seasons. Rivers are seasonal and farmers depend on borehole water for drinking and washing. They must pay for their water and 5 liters of water costs 2 Kenyan Shillings. Most of the houses are built with local bricks and either an iron sheet or a grass thatched roof. Illiteracy is common among older parents/guardians and they only speak the local Akamba language. Despite these levels of poverty, these parents/guardians are hopeful for the success of their children.

Ishmael together with his mother and siblings.

Education is the vehicle that drives change in this region. It is the hope for generations. Every parent/guardian the EFAC team met stressed the importance of education and its impact in ending the cycle of illiteracy and poverty. Students could not hide their joy as they narrated the events which transpired before they acquired an education scholarship. Ishmael Mother asserted that “You instilled hope and bright future to my family, it’s only God who can repay and bless you.” Antony Mulwa, an EFAC scholar who also acted as the team interpreter testified that “I had to repeat standard eight in order to get good marks which guaranteed me an education scholarship.” Through the support of sponsors, Anthony recently completed his Kenya Certificate for Secondary Education (K.C.S.E) last year and is eager to learn his results and what his options are for university or diploma programs. He is currently growing green vegetables and Moringa trees in his father’s farm. He sells the vegetables in a nearby market. He puts a smile as he says “I learnt about the benefits of Moringa trees during the EFAC mentorship workshop. I was given a reference book by the facilitator and when I came back home I planted some seeds in our farm.”

Empowering one student at a time brings joy and hope to families struggling with illiteracy and poverty. Educating younger generations translates to a great future. Students are determined to accomplish their dream and transform their entire trajectory of life in a positive way. Together, let us empower one student at a time with the knowledge that education is the hope for generations.

Help David Finish High School

2014-12-31T02:18:00.002-05:00

EFAC High School Students at the 2014 Mentor Workshop

All of us at EFAC wanted to say thank you to our supporters for a a wonderful 2014!

We are very pleased to tell you that our recent campaign to secure Emma's junior and senior years of high school was a success, and Emma will graduate with her class in 2017.

Thank you.

We are also pleased to tell you that 150 of the 151 EFAC students in high school are fully funded through secondary school.

That's great news. Thank you.

David William

We have only one more student who needs funding so we can guarantee that he, too, will be able to graduate with his class.

During the campaign for Emma, a supporter pledged $500 toward David's tuition -- which means we just need to raise $500 more to guarantee that he can return to St. Mary's Boys School in January.

When David was young, his mother abandoned the family and left David and his siblings in the care of his elderly grandmother. While David’s father works as a peasant farmer to help support his children, he cannot afford high school fees for David or his siblings -- but he is very supportive of David's accomplishments in school.

In 8th grade, David graduated second in a class of 107 students, securing a spot at top rated St. Mary’s Boys School where he is very happy and doing well academically. Outside of the classroom, he loves singing and writing songs.

In a recent letter, David wrote: "I owe you a huge magnitude of gratitude. Actually my words can’t explain it. What a kind heart you have! I understand that it is no joke sponsoring me and trying to help me reach my dreams."

To help David reach his dreams, please consider an end of the year tax-deductible gift.

DONATE NOW -- the minimum donation is only $10 and 100% goes toward helping David complete his high school education.

Happy New Year!

Education Can Be Fun Puzzle Solution by Walker Royce

2014-12-29T16:17:00.001-05:00

Just a few short blog posts ago, we had a wonderful puzzle and promised the answer. You can refresh your memory reading the post here.

Here was the original puzzle:

The poem below has four special attributes with a unifying theme. Can you see the theme?

English shining linens in eggshell sheen.

“Negligees, leggings, high heels,” he sings.

Giggling, she senses illness in his singleness.

Lessening his lies is senile.

Is she seeing his sinning signs?

She sighs. He is selling silliness.

His highness is senseless in English!

Here is the answer! The poem has 4 interesting characteristics around the theme: Enjoy English
1) It starts with the word English,
2) It ends with the word English,
3) The first word of each line spells out English
4) Every word in the poem uses only the 7 letters: E-N-G-L-I-S-H

We hope you enjoyed this illustration of how education can be fun! Wishing you all a Happy New Year!

Help Emma Finish High School

2014-12-28T15:58:00.004-05:00

Emma with the EFAC secondary students

Good news. Thanks to donors like you, every female EFAC scholar is funded through high school -- except for one student -- Emma. Our goal, this holiday season, it to guarantee that Emma will graduate with her class.

Emma is a bright, motivated teenager from Kenya where high school is not free. Her mother was able to raise the fees for Emma's first year of high school but cannot afford to send her back.

We need to raise $1000 by December 31 so she can continue her education at Naivasha Girls School.

“We are 3 in our family. My brother is the first born. He dropped out of school when he was in class eight [eighth grade]. Now he does not have any job. I am the second born and the first one to join secondary school in our family. My mother is a single mother. She reached class seven. She has a small garden in which she grow kales and sells them to get money for our food and paying the rent of the house and the garden. All these challenges do not make me lose hope in life. I believe I can do all things…”

Knowing Emma, we have no doubt she will do whatever she sets her mind to.

After high school, Emma dreams of becoming a banker and "helping other needy children find and get an education."

Let's make her dreams come true.

How can you help?

READ MORE about why it is still so critical to invest in educating girls.
DONATE NOW - the minimum donation is only $10 and 100% goes toward helping Emma complete her educational journey.

Consider making a difference in her life today. Thanks!

Repairing Friendship in the Context of Conflict

2014-12-15T13:22:00.000-05:00

Blog post by Peter King'ori, a member of EFAC's Kenyan Team.

People have unique ways of resolving conflicts. Educators always teach the students that fighting and violence do not resolve conflicts. They advocate for healthy ways of anger management and above all embracing reconciliation and forgiveness.

Problem solving skills tend to be one of the key competencies that employers are looking while hiring. Education for All Children has been giving eminence to topics that empower students with the 21^st century skills during annual workshops. Students are taught to resolve conflicts amicably with their peers, schoolmates, workmates, siblings, parents, teachers and the community at large.

Recently, Diana, an EFAC student at Naivasha Girls High School narrated how she reconciled with her friend. Diana’s friend had requested her accompany to a hockey game. Instead, she refused and opted to remain behind and revise for her exams. Afterwards, her friend started saying false things to her schoolmates. She became angry with her and instead of fighting back she opted to write the below poem while controlling her anger. She later recited it to her friend as she sought for reconciliation who initially busted in laughter but later she asked for forgiveness. After all, we are all human.

Human, Too

By Diana, EFAC student, Naivasha Girls High School

As I watch you drawn in the comfort

Of hands alien to me

And a lot too familiar with you

Still, I’ll smile when you smile at me

And give a nod when you wave at me

All the same, the pain and fury gorge deep

Like the winds, reaping off my trust for you.

Tell me I was never the best

And I will dare to accept

Scream at me you wanted more of my time

Look, sure I won’t throw a dime

If staying away was my only crime

Then tame my minutes to their prime

I’ll be there, so let go of the lime.

As the winds ferry the laughter

And the piece of you that goes with it

Freely you give, freely you receive

Just as it always was with me

Is it a miracle what I feel?

Looking on, I don’t know anymore

Where to focus my eyes when you are around

You told me, so I believed

Then you won’t sum me up when I perceive

The filth in those arms that encircle you

And feel the warmth that I imagine you do.

I’m perverse, I won’t refute

But too bad I couldn’t stay mute

Hear the sad melody of my lute

For with it comes my muse

This doesn’t feel the same, but more of a loot

I don’t know if I will listen, when you fall back

Too much I took in, too much I supposed.

Alright, I will tell it to the world

That I’m jealous when you are held by your

A game of pretense yet at the end it will rip you

Saying you love, yet it’s contrasted down to your toe

Tell me what else to do, except for a wounded sigh and broken ‘oh’

I’m human too, did you know.

Education Can Be Fun by Walker Royce

2014-12-09T15:10:00.001-05:00

There are so many ways to make learning fun. Plenty of good stuff is available to teach people who are motivated to learn, but how can we increase their motivation? People who really enjoy a topic are much more motivated to educate themselves.

Take language for example. English is a complex human creation, and it is as quirky as those of us who speak it. We expect certain structural attributes: symmetry, regularity, consistency, and logical construction of words and phrases. In general, our language delivers well on these features, but occasionally, or even quite frequently, quirks surface. A whirlwind tour through some counterintuitive usages illustrates this point.

A slim chance and a fat chance mean the same thing. A wise man and a wise guyare very different. Unto means the same as to in most usages. Quite a few means quite many. Pineapples have nothing to do with pinesor apples. A house can burn up or burn down with the same outcome. Filling in forms and filling out forms produce the same results. We have noses that run and feet that smell. We fire employees who hardly work and praise them if they work hard. Folk and folksare both plural and mean the same thing. Nonword is a word. Furious means full of fury and joyous means full of joy, but gorgeous does not mean full of gorge. A man with hair sounds much hairier than one with hairs. Why can’t people be chalant, plussed, combobulated, or gruntled? Why can we remember things when we never membered them to begin with? And finally, observe that stifleis an anagram of itself.

These peculiarities might confuse some people, but to me they represent the spectrum of opportunities for surprise and wonder that make English so powerful, puzzling, humorous, and entertaining. It is a remarkably beautiful language.

We can also enjoy English with a puzzle that employs some simple poetic license. The poem below has four special attributes with a unifying theme. Can you see the theme?

English shining linens in eggshell sheen.

“Negligees, leggings, high heels,” he sings.

Giggling, she senses illness in his singleness.

Lessening his lies is senile.

Is she seeing his sinning signs?

She sighs. He is selling silliness.

His highness is senseless in English!

It is a remarkably beautiful language.
(Answer in our next blog post.)

In this short blog, my sole purpose was to point out some opportunities in making a dull topic like language more entertaining to learn. Enjoying a topic motivates us to stay interested even when the lessons are not that much fun. What they don't teach enough of in school is how to enjoy a topic. We mentors, parents and coaches can help reinforce the fun in learning.

Walker Royce is the Chief Software Economist at IBM and the author of three books. Walker and his family are also EFAC sponsors.

Gaining Wisdom from a Mentor

2014-11-21T15:09:00.001-05:00

Blog post by Peter King'ori, a member of EFAC's Kenyan Team.

The traditional African proverb “it takes a village to raise a child,” depicts the expected collaboration in all levels of life while nurturing children. Research has shown us that children who are connected with numerous caring adults tend to do well in life. They are armed with resilience that enables them to step up and respond positively to life challenges.

As the students mature, they need connections with caring adults who ask them: What are your ideals? How is your self- esteem? Do you value yourself? What is your dream career? How often do you evaluate your journey of moral and academic excellence? These kinds of questions provide a road map for life.

Education for all Children (EFAC) continues to incorporate mentoring in its program with the aim of empowering the students with survival and life skills which are essential for their success in life, higher education, career growth and community development. The mentors guide the students to make wise career choices as well as build their character throughout their moral and academic life. Students continue to share how mentorship has impacted their life.Recently Pauline Sinyok, an EFAC student at Kenyatta University said, "I would really wish to thank Africa Nazarene University and my mentor for the guidance that they gave us, it has really helped me to stand by my principles and focus on my studies and I'm really hoping that I will achieve my goals." Brian Okoth, a scholar at Multimedia University acknowledged that “I am so grateful to EFAC. I was totally lost but EFAC mentored me. Now I am a role model to the young ones.”

Esther Wagaki sharing a word of advice to Valentine

Ngigi, an EFAC Scholar at Vanessa Grant Girls School.

Prideluck Kabugane, a student at Moi University once said, “Thank you so much for your kindness. Your kind hearts have kept me going. Above all you are also a source of empowerment and inspiration to me.” Esther Wagaki, a scholar at Masinde Muliro University and a passionate mentor of EFAC scholars in secondary schools shared that “I have been mentored by the EFAC mentors and this has greatly helped me and many of us to always know what to do and what is required of us.” The annual mentorship workshop has also played a role in shaping the moral compass of the students. Gildah, a form three scholar at Starehe Girls’ Centre who is looking forward to becoming a lawyer explained that, “I learnt on how to manage my time well. Now I equate my free time as an opportunity to achieve an A grade.”

Thank you to each of the EFAC mentors, as we continue to impact one life at a time!

Voice From the Field - Mona Kyle - Final Yoga Class

2014-11-13T13:29:00.003-05:00

Mona Kyle, is a volunteer from California who is volunteering with EFAC in Kenya for three months. Mona is living and working at the Vanessa Grant Girls School (VGGS) in Rongai, Kenya, a partner school of EFAC. EFAC students attend secondary school at VGGS. Mona has been teaching Yoga classes during her time there, read Mona's description of their last class together.

Yesterday I taught my last Yoga class at VGGS. Although I was a little skeptical when the idea to teach Yoga during my time in Kenya was first suggested, and getting the mats here proved to be more problematic than I anticipated, the entire experience was fantastic. When we began, very few, if any, of the girls had the slightest idea of what the practice of Yoga involved. Most of those who had heard the term were under the impression that it was just some type of meditation. When we started moving (and breathing) into various postures, I think my students were pleasantly surprised to learn that our practice would not only improve their flexibility, but their overall level of fitness. After a 90 minute class, the girls always embraced our final relaxation, and left for dinner ready to face another three hours of studying.

Ann Sammy is on the left doing Tree Posture

I am happy to report that I have found two girls who are willing to take over my classes by forming a Yoga Club in January, and both of these girls happen to be EFAC scholars. One of the girls is Fraziah. She is a natural, and has challenged me to come up with something new and exciting for each and every class. Unfortunately, Fraziah is a Form 3, so come next September, she will essentially be sequestered as she does her final preparation for the KCSEs. Therefore, Ann Sammy (Form 1) will be working with Fraziah so she can step in when it is necessary for Fraziah to remove herself from the practice.

Fraziah in Pigeon Posture

To assist them in their endeavors, I am leaving behind not only the mats, but a book on Yoga, an outline I have prepared describing the basic class I have been teaching, as well as some cleaning supplies to extend the life of the mats. I am confident that Fraziah and Ann will do an excellent job of keeping Yoga alive and well at VGGS.

Namaste.

The final class doing Camel Posture

Voice From the Field - Mona Kyle - Kivu Retreat

2014-11-11T15:26:00.005-05:00

Mona Kyle, is a volunteer from California who is volunteering with EFAC in Kenya for three months. Mona is living and working at the Vanessa Grant Girls School (VGGS) in Rongai, Kenya, a partner school of EFAC. EFAC students attend secondary school at VGGS. Read Mona's description of a recent retreat for students at the Vanessa Grant Girls School.

On Thursday, November 6^th, in order to reward those students who excelled during Term 2, and to provide an incentive for those who need to improve, VGGS took the top three (3) students in each section (there are three sections in each Form – “V,” “G,” and “S”) of Forms 1, 2, and 3 to Kivu Retreat, a hotel in Nakuru with two fantastic swimming pools. Unfortunately, the Form 4 Candidates were still taking the KCSEs.

The “Most Improved” students in each section and the top three (3) performers of Forms 1, 2, and 3 in the Mathematics Contests were also included. I am pleased to report that many EFAC scholars made the cut. In fact, EFAC scholars swept section “G” of Form 1 with Irene Linah coming in first, Rehema Matua second, and Joyner Wambui third. Irene also qualified for this outing as the “Most Improved,” and with the top Form 1 performance in the Mathematics Contest. Stacy Murungi was also recognized as the #2 student in section ”S” of Form 1, Abigael Muia was the #1 student in the “V” section of Form 2, Pamela Achieng was the #3 student in the “G” section of Form 2, and Dorcas Mwango was the #1 student in the “V” section of Form 3. Fraziah Njeri also qualified with the third best performance in the Form 3 Mathematics Contest. It was quite an impressive showing for EFAC.

After swimming, the girls were also provided lunch, and, judging by their appetites, it was a welcome change from the food served in the dining hall.

Exam Season: A Transition of School Life to an Adult Citizen

2014-11-06T22:36:00.003-05:00

Blog post by Peter King'ori, a member of EFAC's Kenyan Team.

A wise man once said “there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Likewise, the long awaited day October 21, 2014 dawned a hopeful day for the 485,547 candidates of the 2014 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S.E.). It’s a day that all the candidates across the country sit for their English paper in National Examination.

K.C.S.E. serves as a bridge between high school and college/university life where the students are able to specialize in a few subjects and pursue their careers. It also marks an important transition of the students from childhood to adulthood. The Kenyan education system is structured in a manner that by the time a candidate is ready to sit for his/her K.C.S.E. they are already or about to turn 18 years old. In Kenya an 18 years old person is eligible to apply for an identity card which acts as legal document in defining a person transition from childhood to adulthood.

EFAC team with form four students at Stahrehe Girls School.

As the clock ticks on, Kenyans wish the candidates good luck and God’s blessing in their exam. Among them include the President and Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya who in a co-jointly signed card for the candidates articulated that, “This must be an exciting time for you. We encourage you to overcome your anxiety and write the exams with a calm, steady hand...This is therefore to wish you good health, confidence and success in all your papers.”

Among the 485,547 candidates, EFAC is glad to have sponsored 48 scholars. Prior to the exam period, the EFAC team participated in the prayers day in the respective school of each scholar to give them encouragement and moral support. The prayers day brought together the parents, friends, siblings and relatives who made their way to their daughters/sons schools to wish them the best and pray for them as they prepare to sit for their final exams. The prayers day is usually a solemn assembly where the entire school fraternity joins in unison to dedicate their candidates to God. This is because the success of one student means the success of the entire school. This is enshrined in the African spirit of “Ubuntu” where the joy or success of a person is attributed as the joy or success of the entire society.

EFAC team together with the EFAC scholars at Rongai Agri-Tech Boys High school during the prayers day for the form four candidates

As Berger pointed out that the “success of students largely depends on school culture, home culture and community culture,” EFAC appreciates the parents, siblings, friends and relatives of EFAC scholars who came in large numbers during prayers day to support their candidate. We also appreciate the support of the teachers in nurturing the dreams, character formation and talents of the candidates. Our sincere appreciation to all sponsors for their moral and financial support to these candidates. Together as a family we join our hands to wish the EFAC Class of 2015 ‘Best Wishes, good health, success and God’s blessings in their National Exam.’

Voice from the Field - Mona Kyle – Rongai Boys School Prayer Day

2014-11-04T19:06:00.002-05:00

Mona Kyle, is a volunteer from California who is volunteering with EFAC in Kenya for three months. Mona is living and working at the Vanessa Grant Girls School (VGGS) in Rongai, Kenya, a partner school of EFAC. EFAC students attend secondary school at VGGS. Read Mona's description of Prayer Day at Rongai Boys School.

Prayer Day at Rongai Boys’ School was held in early October. Since this is a Christian Brothers School, there was quite a bit more emphasis on prayer than on entertainment. The program consisted primarily of a Mass, which was held in the dining hall. It was a treat to hear the powerful voices of the Rongai Boys’ choir singing throughout the service.

After the Mass, the congregation of students, family and friends was addressed by the Headmaster, Bro. James Thiongo. Bro. James commended the candidates on their ability to work together, and assured them that as a result of their teamwork he is certain that this class will do particularly well on the upcoming exams.

The Head boy, Ismael Ngei, an EFAC scholar, was the next speaker. Ismael gave a very moving speech in which he noted that these candidates were essentially in the same position in 2010 as they are in now because they were preparing to take their KCPEs (Kenya’s 8^thgrade exam). At that time, they were only boys, but in the past four years they have become men, and Ismael believes they have, in fact, become men of substance. He credits their progress to putting God first, and respecting not only their parents and teachers, but also themselves. He thanked the parents for their love and support throughout primary and secondary school, and the teachers for their assistance and persistence in imparting the knowledge necessary to complete the syllabus before the end of the term. Ismael also acknowledged his gratitude to the faculty for their advice and guidance over the past four years. Finally, Ismael expressed his appreciation to his fellow candidates for exhibiting character, discipline, focus, and cooperation.

Before the students were dismissed, the mother of one of the Form 4 boys spoke on behalf of all of the candidates’ families. She stated that because much is expected of their sons, all of the families need to pray for their success. She thanked the teachers for their support and guidance, and for imparting the knowledge necessary for their sons to be successful not only on the KCSEs, but in life. She concluded by asking the candidates to take care of themselves, to ask God for assistance, and to remember that they are brothers and need to work together.

After the service all of the students were permitted to spend the afternoon with their families. The EFAC scholars were gathered in the library by Carol Ngetich, Samwel Mwiko and George Mwangi. When asked to share their impressions of the Mentorship Workshop, almost every student commented on the significance of something said either by the Principal of Alliance Boys’ School or by Johnson Mwakazi, and each stressed the importance of time management in handling their busy schedules. Samwel, is not only a Rongai Boys' graduate, but was also a mentor at the workshop in August, and it was obvious the boys could relate to him as they listened attentively to his words of wisdom. George Mwangi, who had been a teacher at Rongai Boys’ School and is now an EFAC mentor, advised the boys to soften their hearts so they can be molded, and stressed the importance of giving back to their society.

The Long Arm of Education

2014-10-29T17:50:00.002-04:00

by Rod Van Sciver, founder of Education For All Children

Rod Van Sciver with EFAC students

After my friend Joe graduated from Yale in 1966, he went in the Peace Corp where he was assigned to teach school on a small South Pacific island in Palau, Micronesia. He arrived with his duffel of cloths to find a small hut with a dirt floor which was to be his classroom and six young children who spoke no English.

Joe said he was never very good with languages so if he and the kids were going to communicate, it was going to be in English. So the first day, they started learning to communicate.

As time went by, the kids learned Joe’s language. Having no book, Joe made up his curriculum on the fly. He talked about history and geography. They lay on the beach and counted the stars. He played math games in the dirt.

After two years, he returned to the US, having had an enriching experience but wonder if his two years on the small island had been a throw away.

When Joe turned 65, his son James said, “I want to go to Palau with you. I want to meet your students.” Joe thought it was a wonderful idea. What they found speaks to the power of education.

All of his students still lived on the island. They, their children and grandchildren all spoke flawless unaccented English. One of his students owned a successful fish export business. Another served on the Micronesia Fishing Commission that negotiated the licensing and revenue sharing model for tuna caught by foreign fishing fleets in Micronesian waters which turns out to be half of all the tuna caught in the Pacific and a major source of income for the islands.

Joe said his most shocking moment came when a small child asked him, in perfect English, “Are you the Joseph that my grandmother talks about?”

No Joe, you didn’t throw those years away. In fact, what you gave those six children will continue to reverberate well beyond our years.

Voice from the Field - Mona Kyle – VGGS Prayer Day

2014-10-24T15:04:00.000-04:00

Mona Kyle, is a volunteer from California who is volunteering with EFAC in Kenya for three months. Mona is living and working at the Vanessa Grant Girls School (VGGS) in Rongai, Kenya, a partner school of EFAC. EFAC students attend secondary school at VGGS. Read Mona's description of Prayer Day at VGGS.

Earlier this month was the 3^rd Annual Prayer Day at VGGS. Unlike many secondary schools in Kenya that have an Open House, a family Visitation Day, and a Prayer Day, in an attempt to reduce costs and disruption to the academic schedule, Nancy Mwaniki has decided to combine all three events into one, with the emphasis on mentally, emotionally, and spiritually preparing the Form 4 scholars for their upcoming KCSE ordeal. In essence, Prayer Day acknowledges that VGGS has done its part to prepare the candidates for the examinations and enter into the next phase of their lives, requests the candidates’ parents and guardians to pray for their success, and culminates in the act of placing the candidates in the hands of God. The day began with the raising of the flag before an assembly of the entire student body, faculty, and VGGS trustees, and the blessing of the classrooms in which the candidates will be taking the KCSEs by one of the trustees, Lyndon Bowring. This was followed by a procession to the field by the students, faculty, trustees, and, of course, the candidates, where they were greeted by their parents, families and friends.

The program began with entertainment and presentations from the candidates together with the other students. This included singing and dancing by various groups, as well as the VGGS choir. Gogar Primary School also participated in the program with a couple of skits and several musical offerings. The sermon was delivered by Lyndon Bowring who focused on the VGGS Ethos that “truth, integrity and humility are central to everyday living following the examples set by Christ,” and its motto, “Education Today for Leadership Tomorrow.” Mr. Bowring concluded by saying that every day is today, and every day we are alive we should continue to learn since that is what being a disciple truly means.

“The Charging of the Candidates” was done by trustee, Johnny Onslow. He presented each candidate with her own Bible and read the following charge to the VGGS candidates: “I charge you never to forget the great benefits that you have received in this place, and in time to come according to your means, to do all that you can to enable others to enjoy the same advantage; and remember that you carry with you, wherever you go, the good name of Vanessa Grant Girls’ School. May God Almighty bless you in your ways and keep you in the knowledge of his love now and forever.”

The principal advised the candidates that in order to create a meaningful legacy they will need to surround themselves with good people who have similar interests and moral character, recognize and continue to develop their abilities, and avoid compromising their personal integrity. The deputy principal thanked the parents, and the faculty and staff for all the support and encouragement they have shown the candidates during their entire time at VGGS. There was a final surprise presentation by the candidates themselves in which they sang a “Song of Thanksgiving,” individually acknowledging and showing their gratitude to the trustees, administration, faculty and staff. It was a very sweet song, and everyone was genuinely moved by the sentiment. The closing prayer was delivered by one of the parents.

After the program the students spent the afternoon with their visiting families. Their families brought home cooked meals which they were able to enjoy as picnics. Some of these picnics were pretty elaborate affairs. It was nice to see that those students who did not have any family visiting were often invited to join those who did. A couple of girls even invited me to join their family for chapati and mukimo, my favorite Kenyan dishes.

Voice from the Field - Mona Kyle – KCSE Testing

2014-10-20T12:32:00.000-04:00

The significance of the KCSEs in the Kenyan education system tends to be a little overwhelming, not only to the candidates, but even to the casual observer. The KCSEs are currently being administered on every secondary school campus across Kenya, and I am witnessing the effects of the exams at VGGS first hand.

KCSE stands for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education, and is taken by all Form 4 students at the completion of their secondary education. KCSE candidates are tested on a minimum of seven subjects. For grading purposes, the candidates must take all three compulsory subjects (English, Kiswahili and mathematics), at least two sciences (biology, physics and/or chemistry), one humanities (history and government, geography or Christian religious education), and at least one practical or technical subject (home science, art and design, agriculture, computer studies or business studies). The grading of the examination is as follows: A (80% and above), A- (75-79), B+ (70-74), B (65-69), B- (60-65), C+ (55-59), C (50-54), C- (45-49), D+ (40-44), D (35-39), D- (30-34), E (0-29).

In Kenya, this examination determines admittance to public and private universities. The passing mark for the 2013 exam was a minimum score of 60% (B-) for males and 58% (C+) for females. Students who attain a grade C or below have the option to enter a diploma program such as mechanical engineering, clinical medicine, wildlife management and other options that also provide opportunities for employment in the future. Once admitted to a university, a student’s KCSE score also determines what course of study he/she will be permitted to pursue. For example, in order to study medicine, one would need to have As in the four core subjects of English, mathematics, biology and chemistry. Similar requirements exist for every other major offered.

Students at VGGS

The KCSEs are in full swing. The process began on Tuesday, October 14^th with the Computer Studies written examination, followed by the Computer Practical examination on the 15^th. It should be noted that the security surrounding the test questions is very stringent. The examination booklets for all of the local secondary schools are delivered to the Rongai Police Station, and then each subject is individually distributed to the schools on the exact day of the examination with an armed guard, who remains on the campus while the test is being given, collects the completed examination papers, and returns with them to the police station for safe keeping. Similarly, the day before the Chemistry Practical exam was given, it was necessary for Mrs. Mwaniki to go to the police station to pick up the chemicals that would be used for that examination. There are breaks in the exam schedule (for example, Oct. 20^th is a national holiday, i.e., Mashujaa or Heroes’ Day to honor all those who contributed to the struggle for Kenya’s independence), so the last day of the KCSEs is not until November 3^rd, when the candidates will sit for the Biology Practical exam. It has been very quiet on the VGGS campus (even Rongai Boys’ is somewhat subdued) as the lower forms have been very polite and respectful of their older schoolmates, and they contemplate what lies ahead for themselves.

The armed guard who has been on campus at VGGS
since the start of exams, which is standard procedure.