TUMAINI AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
The year 2020 began like any other, but it soon took an unexpected turn, profoundly altering the world. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in tragic loss of life and destabilized even the strongest global economies. Despite the devastation, the crisis underscored the importance of technology and the previously underrated value of spending quality time together.
Nicholas, one of the pioneers of our After school Program, reflects on this period: “In Kenya, education was among the most affected sectors, with schools remaining closed for the entire year. Concerned about the impact on our sponsored children, we decided to expand the after school program that we had originally launched in 2018.” He adds, “Initially, the program had a limited scope, but the challenges of the pandemic highlighted its significance and necessity. In response, we significantly broadened its reach in 2020, both in terms of geographic coverage and the range of topics addressed.”
The primary objective of the program is to provide a structured platform where sponsored children can receive tuition, engage in peer learning, and develop essential life skills, including etiquette, writing, and socialization. Additionally, the program incorporates biblical studies, reinforcing values that shape character and decision-making.
Over time, the afterschool program has become a cornerstone of our efforts, running on weekends and during school breaks. What initially began as a resource for sponsored children has since expanded to include non-sponsored children from the communities we serve. Tumaini recognized the broader need and extended access, ensuring more children benefit from structured learning and personal development opportunities.
The impact of this initiative has been profound, validating every effort invested. The children, along with the wider community, have significantly improved both academically and socially. More importantly, they have acquired essential life skills that extend beyond the classroom. These include increased self-confidence, responsibility in helping their guardians with household chores, and the ability to navigate social interactions with greater ease.
One of the program’s success stories is Sharleen, an alumna of Tumaini International Trust from the Kyumbi region and a current second-year student at Machakos University. She shares, “I have gained so much from this program, and it has profoundly shaped my personality. The holistic approach helped me navigate my teenage years, and now that I am in university, I always make time to support Teacher Emma and mentor the younger children in their lessons.”
Currently, the program operates in the Coastal region and Kyumbi, with plans for further expansion based on its demonstrated impact. The initiative has been warmly embraced by communities, with parents even encouraging their non-sponsored children to participate and learn from our skilled, multi-talented teachers. This trust and faith in Tumaini are testaments to the program’s credibility and effectiveness.
To sustain and enhance the program, we have strategically leveraged available community resources, including teachers, mentors, support staff, and cooks, ensuring children receive meals while attending sessions. One of our most dedicated teachers is Teacher Emma, the lead educator in the Kyumbi region, who currently oversees over 200 children, with numbers steadily increasing. Reflecting on her experience, she shares, “I see this teaching responsibility as both a blessing and an opportunity to give back to my community, having been born and raised here. My greatest goal is to prepare these children for life by teaching them how to express themselves, handle different situations, and most importantly, understand the unconditional love of God and His son, Jesus. Just as we receive forgiveness through Him, I encourage the children to embrace a spirit of forgiveness and love toward others. Seeing former students return to volunteer is a testament to the program’s lasting impact.”
Testimonies from both the communities and program beneficiaries continue to inspire us to provide a supportive learning environment for all. Our vision is to empower communities by educating their children and equipping them with skills that are not traditionally covered in formal education. By doing so, we aim to create self-sufficient, knowledgeable communities, recognizing that an educated population is key to breaking cycles of poverty and dependence. Through this initiative, we remain committed to shaping a brighter future for the children and communities we serve.
