Student Leadership Bodies in Nairobi Schools Revamped for Inclusivity

In 2025, schools across Nairobi have begun revamping their student leadership structures to promote greater inclusivity, equity, and representation. This shift aligns with Kenya’s broader education reforms under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the National Education Sector Strategic Plan (2023–2027), which emphasize learner agency, democratic participation, and leadership development. The new approach encourages schools to move beyond traditional prefect systems and adopt more participatory models that reflect the diversity of the student body.
According to a May 2025 report by WERK Kenya, effective school leadership is now seen as a cornerstone of quality education. Schools are introducing leadership councils, peer-elected committees, and inclusive clubs that give students from different backgrounds—especially girls, learners with disabilities, and marginalized groups—a voice in decision-making. These bodies are tasked with organizing school events, mediating peer issues, and contributing to school improvement plans. Training sessions on leadership, communication, and civic responsibility have also been introduced to equip student leaders with practical skills.
The impact has been encouraging. Teachers report improved discipline, collaboration, and student morale, while learners say they feel more empowered and heard. We now elect leaders who represent our values and ideas, not just those with top grades, said a student from a public secondary school in Westlands. With support from Nairobi County’s Youth Policy and education stakeholders, the revamped leadership model is expected to expand to more schools in 2026. As Kenya continues to invest in inclusive education, Nairobi’s student leaders are setting the tone for a more equitable and engaged generation.