Education Programme
We believe education for all leads to progress for generations and more resilient communities
The Kimana community, located in the semi-arid region of Kajiado County, faces significant challenges related to education like low literacy levels and limited access to schools. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), literacy levels in arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL) are notably lower than the national average. In particular, the Maasai community traditionally exhibits lower engagement in formal education. The programme aims to address these issues by providing education and training, creating a cascading impact of knowledge and empowerment within the community.
Ambokili Farm’s Education Programme aims to uplift the Kimana community through targeted educational initiatives. The Education Programme at Ambokili Farm is designed to improve literacy levels, foster community empowerment, and ensure sustainable development through education initiatives. The programme focuses on providing internship opportunities, supporting children’s education, and advocating for Ambokili Farm’s workers’ children to attend school. These efforts aim to build a literate, empowered, and self-sustaining community in Kimana.
Our Goals
- To equip communities with the skills and resources to take ownership of ongoing community projects.
- To develop and implement sustainable projects by empowering the communities we work with.
- To increase literacy levels among families in Kimana.
- To train our workers how to speak and write in English.
Key Projects:
Our Education Programme is built on 3 key projects, each designed to address the unique educational needs of the Kimana community:
1. Workers' Training
We train our workers in all our areas of operation including but not limited to organic farming, organic permaculture, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation.
In 2023, we started training them on how to speak English. We have a diverse team from all over the globe and this allows all the workers to interact through a common language. Additionally, the workers can communicate with guests and partners at the farm who they may not share a local dialect with. An international language like English allows for easier communication.
2. Internship Training
We provide hands-on learning experiences for community members. We offer internship opportunities, prioritising the residents of Kimana, to build their knowledge and skills so that they can take le to take ownership of our projects. This will ensure they can take the lead in projects, make informed decisions, and increase their longevity. Having community members lead the projects is also more effective as they understand the best of both worlds- their community and the outside world. Thus, they can enable Ambokili Farm effectively create positive change in communities while preserving cultural heritage.
3. Education Advocacy
Advocates for all children to attend school. We ensure that all workers’ children get an education by providing financial support and raising awareness about the importance of education. Since Ambokili Farm started this project, we have seen all our workers’ children admitted to schools and attending school. All the workers use a segment of their income to ensure their kids remain in school. Ambokili Farm continues to raise awareness in the community about the benefits of education to ensure all families take their children to school.
Why We Invest in Education and Why You Should Too
Long-term Sustainability and Cascading Impact
Generational Benefits: Educated parents are more likely to prioritise their children’s education, creating a virtuous cycle of educational attainment.
Sustainable Development: Education contributes to sustainable development by promoting environmental awareness, responsible resource management, and innovative solutions to local challenges.
Community-led Initiatives: Empowered and educated community members are more likely to take ownership of development projects, ensuring their sustainability and success.
Reduction in Crime Rates
Higher education rates are correlated with lower crime rates. Educated individuals are more likely to be employed and engaged in productive activities, reducing the likelihood of engaging in criminal behavior.
Evidence: Studies have shown that communities with higher literacy rates experience fewer incidents of crime. Education provides individuals with better job opportunities, which in turn reduces economic disparities that often lead to criminal activities.
Intended Impact: By improving education and literacy in Kimana, the community can expect a reduction in crime rates especially those associated with conflict due to inadequate resources, leading to a safer and more stable environment for all residents.
Enhancement of Economic Prospects
Education is a key driver of economic growth. It equips individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to participate in the workforce, innovate, and drive economic activities.
Evidence: The World Bank and other international organisations have documented that increased education levels lead to higher income levels and improved economic conditions. Literate individuals can better access and utilise economic opportunities.
Intended Impact: As literacy and education levels rise in Kimana, the community will experience enhanced economic prospects. More individuals will be able to secure better-paying jobs, start their own businesses, and contribute to the overall economic development of the region.
Empowerment of Individuals
Education empowers individuals by providing them with the tools to make informed decisions, participate in governance, and advocate for development. It fosters a sense of self-reliance and confidence.
Evidence: Empowered individuals are more likely to take leadership roles within their communities, engage in civic activities, and contribute to social and economic stability. Education fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for community development.
Intended Impact: By improving education in Kimana, individuals will be better equipped to contribute effectively to their community. This empowerment will lead to stronger community leadership, increased civic participation, sustainability of programmes and projects through community ownership and a more resilient community.
Social Cohesion and Community Development
Education promotes social cohesion by fostering mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation among community members. It helps bridge cultural and social divides, creating a more inclusive society.
Evidence: Communities with higher education levels tend to have stronger social networks and greater social capital. Education encourages values such as tolerance, empathy, and community service.
Intended Impact: Enhancing education in Kimana will strengthen social cohesion, reduce social tensions, and promote a sense of unity and shared purpose within the community.
Join us in making a lasting impact on the lives of children and families in Kimana. Whether you volunteer, donate, or partner with us, your support is crucial in helping us continue this vital work.
