Peer-to-Peer Learning Gaining Popularity in Nairobi High Schools

In 2025, peer-to-peer learning has emerged as a transformative force in Nairobi’s secondary schools, with students increasingly taking the lead in teaching and supporting one another. This collaborative approach—where learners explain concepts, solve problems, and review materials together—is being embraced as a powerful tool to boost academic performance, confidence, and critical thinking. Schools across the city are integrating peer tutoring, study circles, and mentorship clubs into their daily routines, aligning with the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC)’s emphasis on learner agency and teamwork.
According to a July 2025 article by 21K School Kenya, peer-to-peer education fosters deeper understanding by allowing students to learn in relatable language and at their own pace. Teachers in Nairobi have reported that students who participate in peer-led sessions show improved retention and engagement, especially in subjects like mathematics, sciences, and languages. The method also builds leadership and communication skills, as students take turns guiding discussions and offering feedback. In some schools, senior students mentor juniors, creating a culture of academic support and mutual respect.
The trend is supported by national and international education bodies. A 2023 guide by the Maarifa Centre and OECD highlighted peer learning as a key strategy for inclusive and sustainable education systems in Kenya. In September 2025, Nairobi hosted a regional peer learning forum that brought together educators and youth leaders from across Africa to share best practices. With growing evidence of its impact, Nairobi’s education stakeholders are now exploring ways to formalize peer-to-peer learning through school policies, teacher training, and digital platforms that connect learners across schools.