The state of Education in Kenya: A Call for Reform

In a heart-wrenching tweet shared by Willis Evans Otieno on July 5, 2025, the grim reality of educational infrastructure in Kenya is laid bare. The tweet highlights the appalling conditions under which many Kenyan children are forced to learn—collapsing walls, mud floors, pit latrines, a lack of desks, and even classes held under trees. This stark contrast is made even more glaring by the revelation that a sitting President has chosen to allocate a staggering 1.2 billion Kenyan shillings for the construction of a church at State house. This situation raises critical questions about the government’s priorities and the future of education in the country.

The Current State of Schools

The images accompanying the tweet depict a disheartening reality. Many schools in rural and underserved areas of Kenya suffer from dilapidated infrastructure. Children are often found learning in makeshift environments that lack basic facilities. The physical condition of these schools directly affects the quality of education that students receive.

With classrooms that have crumbling walls and mud floors, the learning environment is not only uncomfortable but also unsafe. The absence of proper sanitation facilities, such as pit latrines, poses health risks to students, especially girls who may face additional challenges during menstruation. These issues emphasize the urgent need for infrastructure improvements to provide a conducive learning environment.

Overcrowded Classrooms and Resource Scarcity

The tweet also mentions the extreme overcrowding in classrooms, where textbooks are shared at a ratio of four-to-one. Such conditions hinder effective learning and limit students’ ability to engage with the material fully. When resources are scarce, the quality of education is compromised, leading to lower academic performance and reduced opportunities for students in the future.

The lack of adequate desks forces children to sit on the floor or share limited seating arrangements, further distracting them from their studies. The absence of basic educational resources, such as textbooks and writing materials, stifles creativity and critical thinking, skills that are essential in today’s rapidly evolving world.

Disparities in Government Spending

The decision to spend 1.2 billion Kenyan shillings on a church at State House raises profound questions about the government’s priorities. Critics argue that such expenditures reflect a troubling disparity in the allocation of resources. While religious institutions play a vital role in society, the pressing need for investment in education cannot be overlooked.

Kenya’s education sector has long been underfunded, and the lack of investment in schools is evident. Instead of prioritizing infrastructure and resources for education, the government appears to be focusing on projects that do not directly benefit the youth or address the educational crisis. This misallocation of funds not only undermines the future of the country but also perpetuates a cycle of poverty and inequality.

The Importance of Education in National Development

Education is a cornerstone of national development. It empowers individuals, fosters economic growth, and promotes social cohesion. When children receive a quality education, they are better equipped to contribute positively to society and the economy. Conversely, when educational systems fail, entire generations are at risk of being left behind.

Investing in education should be a top priority for any government, especially in a developing nation like Kenya. Improved educational infrastructure, access to resources, and better-trained teachers are essential for nurturing a generation that can drive innovation and development.

Raising Awareness and Advocacy

The tweet by Willis Evans Otieno serves as a powerful call to action for both the government and citizens. It highlights the need for increased awareness about the dire state of education in Kenya and encourages advocacy for change. Citizens must hold their leaders accountable and demand that the government prioritize educational reform and allocate resources toward building better schools.

Social media platforms have become powerful tools for raising awareness and mobilizing support for social causes. Campaigns that highlight the plight of students in underfunded schools can garner public support and pressure the government to take action.

The Role of Community and NGOs

In addition to government efforts, local communities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can play a crucial role in improving educational infrastructure. Community-led initiatives can address immediate needs by fundraising for repairs, providing resources, or even constructing new facilities. NGOs often possess the expertise and funding necessary to implement educational programs, teacher training, and infrastructure development.

Partnerships between the government, communities, and NGOs can create a holistic approach to education reform. By working together, these entities can develop sustainable solutions that improve the educational landscape for future generations.

Conclusion

The tweet by Willis Evans Otieno shines a spotlight on the urgent need for reform in Kenya’s educational system. The stark contrast between the conditions in schools and the government’s spending priorities raises critical questions about the future of education in the country. As Kenyans reflect on the importance of education for national development, it becomes clear that immediate action is necessary to ensure that all children have access to quality learning environments.

By prioritizing educational reform, investing in infrastructure, and advocating for resource allocation, the government can create a brighter future for its youth. The call for change must resonate within communities, NGOs, and the government to foster a more equitable and prosperous society. Education is not merely a privilege; it is a fundamental right that every child in Kenya deserves.

Look at the kind of schools our children attend , collapsing walls, mud floors, pit latrines, and no desks. Pupils learning under trees. Textbooks shared four-to-one. And in the same country, a sitting President chooses to build a church worth 1.2B at State House.
A spiritual… pic.twitter.com/wUB8LqYIuL

— Willis Evans Otieno (@otienowill) July 5, 2025

Look at the kind of schools our children attend

When you think about education, what comes to mind? A place where children can flourish, learn, and grow into responsible adults, right? But what if that ideal is not the reality for many kids around the world? Take a moment to envision the schools that some of our children attend. We’re talking about collapsing walls, mud floors, and pit latrines. Yes, you heard that right! In this day and age, many students are learning under trees, and textbooks are shared four-to-one among them. It’s a heartbreaking scenario that begs for attention.

Collapsing Walls, Mud Floors, and Pit Latrines

Imagine stepping into a classroom where the walls are crumbling and the floors are made of mud. This is not just a scene from a dystopian movie; it is the everyday reality for countless students. The lack of basic infrastructure can severely hinder a child’s ability to learn and feel safe in their environment. According to reports from UNICEF, millions of children are still deprived of the basic conditions needed for effective learning. It’s hard to focus on lessons when you’re worried about the roof over your head or the cleanliness of your surroundings.

Pupils Learning Under Trees

Let’s dive deeper into the conditions many pupils face. Learning under trees is not just a poetic image; it’s a sad reality for some students who lack proper classrooms. When the weather doesn’t cooperate, these children are left in the lurch, missing out on vital educational opportunities. Outdoor learning can be beneficial, but it should not be the only option available. Every child deserves a dedicated space that fosters learning and growth!

Textbooks Shared Four-to-One

How can we expect our children to succeed when they are sharing one textbook among four students? This staggering statistic highlights the severe resource shortages in many schools. The lack of adequate educational materials can stifle a child’s ability to engage fully with their studies. In an age where information is at our fingertips, it’s shocking to think that many children are still struggling with outdated resources. This situation not only affects academic performance but also impacts the self-esteem and motivation of young learners.

A Sitting President Chooses to Build a Church Worth 1.2B

Now, let’s pivot to a rather disheartening decision made by some leaders. In a country where educational institutions are in dire need of repair and resources, a sitting president has opted to spend a staggering 1.2 billion on building a church at State House. This raises some serious questions about priorities. Is it more important to invest in a spiritual sanctuary, or should the focus be on providing children with safe, functional schools? The choice seems clear to many, yet the reality speaks volumes about the values that are upheld in certain political climates.

The Impact of Poor Educational Facilities

When education takes a backseat, the consequences can be long-lasting. Children who lack a quality education often find themselves trapped in cycles of poverty and limited opportunities. According to a report by The World Bank, improving educational facilities can significantly enhance learning outcomes. By investing in schools with proper infrastructure, governments can help break the cycle of poverty and empower future generations.

Raising Awareness and Taking Action

What can we do about these glaring issues? Awareness is the first step. By shining a light on the conditions in which some children are learning, we can encourage discussions and actions that lead to meaningful change. Social media platforms can be a powerful tool in raising awareness. When voices like Willis Evans Otieno’s echo the struggles faced by children, it can spark a movement that demands better educational conditions.

Community Involvement and Support

Communities can also play a significant role in improving educational conditions. Local organizations and grassroots movements can rally support and resources to help build better schools. Initiatives like community fundraisers, partnerships with NGOs, and volunteer programs can lead to tangible improvements. The more we invest in our children’s education, the brighter the future will be for everyone.

Government Responsibility

It’s essential for governments to recognize their role in ensuring that every child has access to a quality education. This means prioritizing funding for schools, allocating resources wisely, and engaging with communities to understand their needs. It’s not just about building structures; it’s about creating environments where children can thrive and learn. Leaders must remember that their decisions directly impact the lives of the nation’s youth.

Global Perspective on Education

Looking beyond local borders, the global education crisis is a pressing issue that demands attention. According to the Global Partnership for Education, about 258 million children around the world are out of school. This staggering number underscores the need for a united effort to address educational disparities globally. By working together, we can advocate for policies that promote access to quality education for all children, regardless of their circumstances.

Hope for the Future

Despite the grim realities faced by many, there is hope. Organizations, activists, and communities worldwide are working tirelessly to ensure that children have access to the education they deserve. By focusing on improving school conditions, providing necessary resources, and advocating for the rights of every child, we can make a difference. The path may be challenging, but the potential rewards are immeasurable. Imagine a world where every child has the opportunity to learn in a safe, supportive environment!

Join the Movement

Are you ready to be part of the solution? Educate yourself about the challenges faced by children in your community and beyond. Share what you learn with others, and consider supporting organizations that are working to improve educational conditions. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply raising awareness, every action counts. Together, we can create a future where children no longer face the struggles of collapsing walls, mud floors, and inadequate resources.

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This article aims to address the serious issues faced by children in poorly funded educational systems while encouraging readers to take action and raise awareness. By using engaging and straightforward language, it seeks to connect with readers on a personal level, inviting them to reflect on the importance of education in shaping the future.