Local Churches Support Evening Study Programs in Nairobi Schools

Local churches across Nairobi are expanding their role in community education by supporting evening study programs designed to help learners access safe, structured study environments after school. Clergy members, youth coordinators and education volunteers from various congregations have begun partnering with local schools—particularly in densely populated neighbourhoods such as Kibra, Mathare and Kayole—to offer supervised revision time, mentorship and access to learning materials. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap for students who face challenges studying at home due to limited space, noise or lack of electricity.
Church-led education support is not new, but recent collaborations have grown more organized and community-driven. Faith-based organizations have long played a crucial role in youth empowerment. For example, SCRIPTURES UNION Kenya runs school-focused mentorship and values-based programs that complement academic development Similarly, Caritas Nairobi has been active in supporting vulnerable children through education assistance and community outreach projects . These kinds of models have inspired local parishes to begin structured evening study programs where volunteers help learners revise, complete homework and build confidence in core subjects.
School administrators say the involvement of local churches has eased pressure on overstretched teachers and offered much-needed support to students preparing for national assessments. Many parents have also embraced the initiative, noting that evening study programs provide safe spaces for their children at a time when idle hours can lead to risky behaviours. In communities where academic resources are scarce, the presence of volunteers offering academic guidance has boosted motivation among learners, particularly in upper-primary and secondary school levels.
With the success of the ongoing initiatives, Nairobi’s faith leaders plan to expand the model to more neighbourhoods by recruiting additional volunteers and strengthening partnerships with school boards. Some churches are exploring the possibility of adding digital learning stations and weekend academic clinics to enhance access to study resources. Education stakeholders hope that sustained collaboration between schools and church communities will continue to improve learner performance and foster a culture of discipline, mentorship and academic excellence across the city.