Nairobi Parents Group Launches Drive to Support Needy Students

A coalition of parents across Nairobi has launched a citywide initiative aimed at supporting underprivileged students with school fees, uniforms, learning materials, and mentorship programs. The campaign, titled Every Child Matters , seeks to bridge the gap for learners from low-income families, particularly those in informal settlements, who often face barriers to completing their education. Coordinators of the program say the initiative is designed to mobilize both community resources and corporate partnerships to ensure that vulnerable students remain in school and can pursue academic excellence.
The initiative emerged after surveys revealed that many students in Nairobi were at risk of dropping out due to poverty-related challenges. Schools in estates such as Kibera, Mathare, and Korogocho report frequent absenteeism linked to lack of uniforms, inadequate meals, and insufficient learning materials. The parents’ coalition, in collaboration with non-governmental organizations and local youth leaders, has established a structured framework to provide support, including scholarship funds, provision of stationery, mentorship programs, and peer-learning clubs.
Early beneficiaries of the program have expressed relief and optimism. In one Nairobi primary school, 50 students received full support for the term, including meals and study materials. Teachers report a notable improvement in attendance, concentration, and overall morale among pupils who were previously struggling. Parents involved in the campaign are also contributing time and expertise, mentoring children, organizing study groups, and liaising with school administrators to identify students in need.
Looking forward, the coalition plans to expand the drive to include more schools and engage more stakeholders, including local businesses, religious organizations, and philanthropic foundations. There are also plans to set up monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track students’ academic performance and wellbeing, ensuring that the support provided has a measurable impact. Organizers hope that by sustaining and scaling the program, Nairobi can create a culture of communal responsibility that ensures no child is left behind due to economic hardship.