0
0
Eastern Produce Kenya (EPK) has made a significant investment of KSh. 18 million to enhance educational infrastructure and support in Nandi County.
This investment includes the commissioning of eight newly modified and upgraded science laboratories across junior schools, valued at KSh. 16 million, as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to improve access to quality education in the region.
The newly commissioned laboratories are part of EPK’s initiative to strengthen STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in local communities, laying a stronger foundation for learners in these critical fields. Three of the beneficiary schools—Khartoum Junior School, Kipchamo Junior School, and Kipsitoi Junior School—are located within EPK’s tea estates, while the other five are neighboring community schools, including Septon Junior School, Kamarini Junior School, Chepkunyuk Junior School, Nandi Hills Township Junior School, and Cheptabach Junior School.
During the commissioning ceremony, EPK Company Director Mrs. Leah Kibii Chirchir reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the welfare of the communities and the environment in which it operates. She highlighted the positive impact of a similar project initiated four years ago at Savani Secondary School, where the construction of a science laboratory led to marked improvements in students’ performance, particularly in science subjects. Since the laboratory’s introduction, the number of students transitioning to university has steadily increased, demonstrating the long-term benefits of such investments.
“Today, as we commission more laboratories for the Junior Schools, we believe that this will go a long way in supporting the Government’s Competency-Based Curriculum that is meant to nurture talent and prepare our children for a practical approach that develops their skills and competencies by focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and communication skills,” said Mrs. Chirchir.
In addition to the science laboratories, EPK has launched a secondary school education scholarship program aimed at empowering academic achievers. The program has already awarded full scholarships to three students—two boys and one girl—at a total cost of KSh. 2 million.
Mrs. Chirchir emphasized that education is a vital investment in the future, contributing to social stability, improved health, livelihoods, and long-term economic growth. “Our goal is to catalyze inclusive and quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities in our communities,” she added.
EPK’s educational initiatives align with Sustainable Development Goal 4, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. Since 2019, the company has invested over KSh. 30 million in education, benefiting more than 60,000 learners. This includes the establishment of 15 schools within its estates and the provision of free education to the children of its employees through bursaries.
The company’s educational support extends to Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centers, where it has provided classroom furniture designed to encourage learning. EPK has also played a key role in enhancing digital literacy by donating computers to schools and assisting in the establishment of computer labs.
Moreover, EPK is actively involved in promoting gender equality in education by supporting adolescent girls and boys with life skills education and menstrual products, helping to maintain steady attendance and ensure that girls remain in school.
Through these initiatives, Eastern Produce Kenya continues to make a positive impact on the educational landscape of Nandi County, supporting students in accessing quality education and equal opportunities.
4o
Next education pro
