Meet Gertrude from Kenya!
We are excited to introduce you to Gertrude Awinija, a teacher at MCO Joy Primary School in the Mathare slums. The Mathare slums are one of the largest and oldest urban slums in Kenya. We asked her some questions about her teaching experience and hopes for her students’ future. We hope this story sheds some light on what it is like to be a teacher in Kenya.
How long have you been teaching?
I have been teaching for 12 years.
Why did you decide to become a teacher?
I was inspired by one of my primary school teachers and also having the urge to impact the lives of other people.
What inspires/encourages you as a teacher?
Seeing young children grow spiritually, physically, mentally and excelling academically.
What are the challenges you face as a teacher?
Lack of materials and equipment needed to teach.
Please share with us one student’s story.
When I think of a story of overcoming hardship, I think of Austine Kisanji. His father was stable in paying school fees but unfortunately, he lost his job and Austine almost dropped out of school. Through CCI sponsorship, he was able to complete class eight and receive the marks need on the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE), the national examination needed to attend high school. Having his school fees paid allowed him to attend school and focus on his studies.
What is it like being a teacher in Kenya?
Being a teacher in Kenya requires a lot of commitment and sacrifice because we deal with children who are disadvantaged and their parents cannot afford basic needs including learning material and school fees.
How do you think CCI’s sponsorship program helps your students?
Those learners who are under the CCI sponsorship program are able to continue with their studies as their school fees are catered for. They attend school regularly hence they are able to concentrate on their studies.
If you could pass on any wisdom to your students, what would you share?
I would encourage them to work hard in their studies as nothing comes on a silver platter.
What are your dreams for your students?
My dream is for them to have a better future and to be able to provide for their families and help others.
How do you think Christian education impacts the children?
It enables them to make wise decisions based on Biblical principles.
Legacy Giving
Your sponsorship of $40 has blessed the lives of children living in poverty. A planned, charitable gift to ChildCare International will leave a legacy of breaking the cycle of poverty in the lives of these children for generations to come.
Learn more at https://staging.childcareinternational.ca/legacy-giving.