Located in Nakuru County, Freedom School stands as a unique primary institution that aims to revolutionize education by embracing African culture and empowering its students.
Founded in 2018 by Oku Kanayo and Utheri, the school challenges the negative narratives surrounding the African continent.
With a focus on cultural pride, problem-solving, and academic excellence, Freedom School offers a refreshing educational approach that celebrates African identity.
WoK explores the school’s foundation, its distinctive features, and its notable achievements.
Embracing African Culture and Identity
Children in Freedom School was established in 2018 by Oku Kanayo and Utheri, driven by their frustration with the prevailing international rhetoric that portrayed Africa as hopeless and backward.
Their vision was to create an educational institution that would foster cultural pride and awareness among students.
A notable aspect of the school is its unique dress code.
Instead of the conventional uniform, students proudly wear African-themed attire like dashiki and Ankara, symbolizing their connection to the continent’s rich heritage.
This distinct dress code not only sets the school apart but also instills a sense of cultural identity and appreciation among the students.
An Inclusive and Multilingual Environment
Children in Freedom School goes beyond traditional subjects by incorporating local languages into its curriculum.
Students have the opportunity to learn languages such as Luhya, Luo, Kalenjin, Kikuyu, Kisii, and more.
This emphasis on linguistic diversity helps preserve and celebrate Kenya’s cultural tapestry.
Additionally, students introduce themselves using their African names, further promoting a sense of belonging and pride in their heritage.
By embracing multilingualism, the school encourages students to appreciate the importance of cultural diversity and fosters an inclusive environment that values all languages and traditions.
Empowering Education and Technological Integration
Freedom School is committed to providing an empowering education that prepares students for the challenges of the modern world.
The school recognizes the importance of technology and offers technological studies at an early age.
Each student is provided with an official school email address, exposing them to digital communication tools and cultivating technological literacy.
While following the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the 8-4-4 curriculum, the school also includes additional subjects aimed at equipping students with essential life skills.
Through this holistic approach, Children in Freedom School prepares students to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and active contributors to society.
Notable Achievements and Recognition
Children in Freedom School has achieved remarkable academic success.
In 2022, the school celebrated its first batch of KCPE candidates who obtained an impressive mean grade of 355, with the top student scoring 406.
These achievements reflect the school’s commitment to academic excellence and the effectiveness of its unique educational approach.
Furthermore, the school’s dedication to preserving African culture and promoting an inclusive environment has garnered recognition.
In June 2023, Children in Freedom School was shortlisted for the T4 Education initiative’s World’s Best School Prizes Award, highlighting its impact in nurturing African identity and educational empowerment.