Author name: Emma Kirigo

WERK Seminar Series: Empowering Staff and Members with New Skills At WERK, continuous learning and professional development are at the core of our mission to drive innovation and excellence in education. This commitment is exemplified through our WERK Seminar Series, an initiative designed to equip staff and members with cutting-edge skills and knowledge to address evolving challenges in the education sector. Purpose of the Seminar Series The seminar series aims to: Enhance Professional Growth: By providing opportunities to learn from industry experts and thought leaders. Foster Innovation: Encouraging participants to explore creative solutions to educational challenges. Promote Collaboration: Offering a platform for members to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build networks. Bridge Evidence and Practice: Linking research insights with practical applications to improve outcomes. Topics and Skills Covered The series features diverse topics tailored to the needs of the education sector, including: Digital learning tools and technology integration. Monitoring, evaluation, and research best practices. Effective communication and social media management. Leadership and organizational development. Sustainability and environmental stewardship. Recent Highlights In recent sessions, participants engaged in discussions about: Leveraging EdTech for Better Learning Outcomes: Exploring tools that make learning interactive and accessible. Tree-Planting as a Community Engagement Tool: Supporting environmental conservation while enhancing public participation. Why It Matters The WERK Seminar Series underscores our belief that investing in the growth of our staff and members is key to achieving sustainable impact. By equipping our team with the skills to innovate and lead, we are creating a ripple effect that benefits the communities we serve. Stay tuned for updates on our next seminar. Together, we continue to make education work for everyone!

WERK Supports President Ruto’s Commitment to End Femicide and Gender-Based Violence We commend President Ruto for taking a bold step in addressing the pressing issue of femicide and gender-based violence in our country. His commitment to allocate Ksh. 100 million to support women leaders in their campaign is a crucial move toward safeguarding the lives and rights of women and girls. At WERK, we believe that combating gender-based violence requires collective action from all sectors of society. This funding, coupled with collaborative efforts, will empower women leaders to champion awareness, prevention, and intervention programs to protect vulnerable populations and create safer communities for all. As an organization dedicated to promoting equity and education, WERK stands ready to partner with like-minded stakeholders to amplify these efforts. Together, we can create a future where women and girls thrive without fear of violence. #EndGBV #SupportWomen #WERKForChange

Opportunity Schools: Bridging the Educational Divide in Northern Kenya In Kenya’s vast arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), educational access remains a significant challenge. These regions, often remote and under-resourced, face unique barriers that impact the schooling experience for children. To tackle these challenges, Women Educational Researchers of Kenya (WERK) introduced the Opportunity Schools program under the larger umbrella of the Education for Pastoralists Program (EfPP). This initiative specifically aims to enhance access, retention, and learning outcomes for children in the pastoralist regions of Northern Kenya, covering early childhood to Grade 8 education. The Context: Educational Gaps in Northern Kenya Northern Kenya, known for its beautiful landscapes and pastoralist culture, is also characterized by harsh environmental conditions, limited infrastructure, and socioeconomic challenges. Here, many children lack consistent access to quality education due to a range of factors. Traditional lifestyles, where communities often migrate for water and grazing, make it challenging for children to maintain regular school attendance. Moreover, schools in these regions often lack essential facilities, trained teachers, and adequate learning materials, leading to low literacy rates and high dropout rates. Statistics show that children in these areas are less likely to complete primary education compared to those in other parts of Kenya. This situation has a ripple effect, impacting future employment, community health, and overall development. WERK’s Opportunity Schools program seeks to address these multifaceted issues by creating a structured, locally adapted approach to education. Goals of the Opportunity Schools Program The Opportunity Schools program is more than just an educational initiative; it is a targeted intervention to build a sustainable educational ecosystem in underserved regions. Its main goals include: Improving Enrollment and Attendance: The program aims to increase enrollment by making school more accessible and appealing. Strategies include sensitizing communities on the importance of education, especially for girls, and adapting schooling to fit the local pastoralist lifestyle. Enhancing Learning Outcomes: Opportunity Schools work to improve literacy and numeracy skills among students, focusing on measurable improvements in foundational skills that are crucial for future learning. Strengthening School Infrastructure: Many schools in Northern Kenya operate with minimal infrastructure. WERK’s program invests in building and upgrading classrooms, providing essential learning materials, and ensuring safe and child-friendly environments. Engaging Communities: The program emphasizes collaboration with parents, teachers, and local leaders, promoting a community-driven approach to education. This engagement helps to reinforce the value of education within pastoralist communities and ensures that schools are supported by the people they serve. Partnering with the Ministry of Education: By working closely with the Ministry of Education, WERK aligns its goals with national priorities and gains support for sustainable change, increasing the program’s reach and effectiveness. Program Implementation: A Grassroots Approach Implementing an education program in such challenging terrain requires innovation and adaptability. WERK’s grassroots approach is tailored to the specific needs of each community, ensuring that Opportunity Schools are responsive to local dynamics. This involves regular consultation with community leaders, parents, and students, as well as training for teachers to equip them with the skills needed to handle the unique challenges of teaching in remote areas. One of the distinctive aspects of the program is its flexibility. Recognizing that pastoralist families frequently move, the Opportunity Schools program considers mobile schooling models and seasonal schedules, accommodating the communities’ migration patterns. This flexibility helps keep children in school, even during peak migration periods, addressing one of the primary causes of low attendance in the region. Impact and Success Stories Since its inception, the Opportunity Schools program has already seen significant successes in terms of increased enrollment, particularly for girls, who often face additional barriers to education in pastoralist communities. Schools involved in the program have reported better attendance rates and higher retention among students, who now have access to a more supportive and resourceful learning environment. For example, in some schools, the introduction of basic facilities like water points, latrines, and shaded learning areas has dramatically improved the learning experience. Children who once struggled to concentrate in extreme heat now have classrooms that offer a safe and conducive environment. Additionally, students who complete their primary education are more likely to continue into secondary education, setting the stage for a generation that is more educated, skilled, and empowered to contribute to their communities. The Role of Community in Educational Success One of the pillars of the Opportunity Schools program is the active involvement of the community. Recognizing that education is a shared responsibility, WERK works with parents, local authorities, and educators to build a culture that values learning. In many pastoralist communities, where education may not have been a priority historically, this community-based approach has proven to be essential. Through the program, community members are encouraged to participate in school management and take on roles in creating a positive school environment. Parents and leaders are also given opportunities to share feedback, which WERK uses to continuously improve and adapt the program to the changing needs of the community. This model not only increases local support for education but also ensures that schools become an integral part of the social fabric. Challenges and Future Prospects While the Opportunity Schools program has made significant strides, challenges remain. Infrastructure, though improving, still requires further development, as do resources for teacher training and learning materials. Financial sustainability is another concern; scaling up the program to cover more areas will require sustained funding and long-term support from both the government and development partners. Looking ahead, WERK aims to expand the reach of the Opportunity Schools program and incorporate technology into learning. With digital tools, students in remote areas can access educational resources and connect with the broader world, despite geographical limitations. Additionally, by deepening partnerships with organizations focused on ASAL regions, WERK hopes to strengthen the program’s impact and create more comprehensive support for pastoralist children. Conclusion: A Hopeful Future for Northern Kenya’s Children The Opportunity Schools program represents a bold step toward educational equity in Kenya. By addressing the unique needs of pastoralist communities, WERK is helping to dismantle barriers to learning

Mashujaa Day 2024: Celebrating Heroes of Education and Progress Mashujaa Day, observed every year on October 20th, is a day for Kenyans to honor the heroes and heroines who have made significant contributions to the country. From the freedom fighters of the independence struggle to modern-day champions of change, this day allows us to reflect on the sacrifices made for the nation’s growth and progress. In alignment with this spirit, WERK (Women Educational Researchers of Kenya) takes this opportunity to recognize the unsung heroes who have championed educational development and empowerment across Kenya. The Role of Education in Shaping Heroes Education plays a pivotal role in creating tomorrow’s heroes. It opens doors to opportunity, builds communities, and equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead. At WERK, we believe that every learner has the potential to become a changemaker. By supporting education initiatives, particularly in marginalized communities, we are building a future where heroes are not just celebrated on Mashujaa Day but every day, through their contributions to society. WERK’s projects, focused on areas such as education research, monitoring and evaluation, and empowering vulnerable groups, aim to break down the barriers to quality education. These efforts create pathways for young learners to become tomorrow’s innovators, leaders, and champions for a better Kenya. Honoring Heroes of Educational Progress This Mashujaa Day, WERK highlights the work of educators, researchers, and community leaders who have dedicated themselves to advancing education in Kenya. From teachers in remote regions who go the extra mile to ensure children have access to learning, to individuals who contribute to research that influences national policy, these unsung heroes are transforming lives through education. WERK’s commitment to inclusive education is evident in our initiatives such as the YES (Youth, Education & Sports) Program, where sports are integrated with learning to help students thrive, and the EdTech RAS Training Workshop, which focuses on improving digital literacy in schools. These programs embody the spirit of Mashujaa Day by recognizing and nurturing the potential within our youth. Building Future Heroes: The Impact of WERK’s Projects Through our various programs, WERK has empowered thousands of learners across Kenya. For instance, in our Breaking Barriers to Girls’ Education initiative, we’ve worked tirelessly to address the challenges faced by young girls in pursuing education. By providing mentorship, resources, and advocacy, we’ve created environments where girls can excel and aspire to be the next generation of heroines. Similarly, WERK’s work with marginalized communities aims to close the gap in educational access, ensuring that no child is left behind. These efforts resonate deeply with the values of Mashujaa Day, as they are rooted in resilience, perseverance, and a commitment to national development. Looking Ahead: Heroes of Tomorrow As we celebrate Mashujaa Day 2024, we not only honor the heroes of the past but also look to the future. The work we do today in education will define the leaders and heroes of tomorrow. WERK remains committed to shaping this future by investing in education, nurturing talent, and creating opportunities for all Kenyans, especially those in underserved regions. On this special day, we call on all Kenyans to recognize the importance of education in nation-building. Let’s continue to support initiatives that empower our youth and build a brighter, more prosperous future for Kenya. Happy Mashujaa Day from WERK! In celebrating our collective heroes, let us remember that the power of education is one of the greatest tools we have in shaping the Kenya we want to see for generations to come.

Bridging Evidence and Practice: Strengthening Research-to-Policy Pathways In today’s fast-evolving educational landscape, bridging the gap between research and practical implementation has become critical for sustainable development. Women Educational Researchers of Kenya (WERK), in collaboration with Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), has taken significant strides toward ensuring that research not only stays in the academic realm but also actively informs policies that affect the lives of children, youth, and educators across Kenya. On October 18, 2024, WERK hosted a workshop titled “Bridging Evidence and Practice: Strengthening Research-to-Policy Pathways in Resilience and Social-Emotional Learning.” The event gathered educational experts, policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to delve into the pressing need for research-driven policies that promote resilience and social-emotional learning (SEL) in schools. The focus on these areas reflects WERK’s mission of impacting vulnerable learners and driving forward education policies that prioritize holistic student development. Why the Gap Exists: Challenges in Bridging Research and Practice Educational research is often brimming with innovative ideas and potential solutions to the challenges schools face today. However, implementing these research findings can be hindered by several factors: Lack of Clear Communication Between Researchers and Policymakers: Too often, researchers operate within academic silos, publishing their findings in journals without them reaching the policymakers who can implement change. Limited Access to Research: Many education stakeholders, particularly in underfunded regions, do not have access to the latest studies or the resources to apply their recommendations. Capacity for Implementation: Schools, particularly those in marginalized communities, may lack the resources, infrastructure, and trained personnel to implement new teaching methods or resilience-building programs. These barriers can delay or block the translation of evidence-based solutions into practical improvements in the classroom, which is where WERK aims to intervene. WERK’s Role in Bridging the Divide WERK, with its deep commitment to education and development, recognizes that creating stronger research-to-policy pathways requires collaboration and sustained effort from all parties involved. This workshop focused on crafting solutions that draw from both research and practical experiences in the field, particularly in promoting resilience and SEL. By engaging stakeholders from across the educational spectrum, WERK fosters an environment where research can directly inform policy. The organization’s role is pivotal in acting as a bridge that connects the academic world with policy implementers, ensuring that new educational practices reach the classrooms in Kenya’s most underserved communities. Resilience and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) One of the central themes of the workshop was resilience and SEL—two areas crucial for the development of well-rounded learners capable of overcoming the challenges of the 21st century. Social-emotional learning involves equipping students with skills such as emotional regulation, empathy, and effective communication, all of which are essential for success both inside and outside the classroom. Research has shown that SEL programs can significantly improve students’ academic performance, reduce behavior problems, and increase emotional well-being. However, implementing such programs requires policies that support teacher training, curriculum development, and ongoing monitoring to ensure that SEL is integrated into schools across the country. Strengthening Research-to-Policy Pathways One of the key outcomes of this workshop was the identification of actionable steps that can help bridge the evidence-policy gap. Some of the strategies include: Building Partnerships Between Researchers and Policymakers: Collaboration between these groups ensures that research findings are not only available but are also crafted in a way that is digestible and usable for policy formulation. Training and Development Programs: Schools need support in integrating SEL into their curriculums. Continuous training for teachers, administrators, and support staff is essential for effective implementation. Monitoring and Evaluation Systems: Research must inform not only policy formulation but also its evaluation. Proper monitoring systems can ensure that resilience and SEL initiatives are achieving their intended outcomes and can provide data for further improvement. Driving Impactful Change The overarching goal of this collaboration between WERK and IPA is to drive impactful change. By focusing on evidence-based interventions, such as resilience-building and SEL, this initiative is ensuring that Kenyan schools can adopt strategies that are proven to work. The workshop’s discussions emphasized the importance of working closely with local communities and schools to understand their unique challenges and opportunities. This approach ensures that policies are tailored to the specific contexts they will be implemented in, making them more effective. WERK’s commitment to transforming research into action demonstrates a vision of an education system where all students, regardless of background, have access to opportunities that foster their academic, emotional, and social growth. The organization’s efforts, alongside its partners, are creating a more resilient future for learners in Kenya. Conclusion Bridging the gap between research and practice is a crucial step toward creating an education system that truly serves the needs of students. Through workshops like this, WERK is at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring that the latest research informs policies that promote resilience and social-emotional learning. As Kenya continues to work toward its educational goals, initiatives like this will play an integral role in shaping the policies that impact the nation’s future. Together, through collaboration and a shared commitment to evidence-based solutions, we can ensure that research drives impactful change in the classroom and beyond.

Empowering the Girl Child: WERK’s Commitment to Building a Brighter Future   At Women Educational Researchers of Kenya (WERK), empowering the girl child has always been at the heart of our mission. As a women-led organization, we strive to create equal opportunities for girls to thrive in education, leadership, and beyond. This blog highlights our ongoing efforts to support girls, break barriers, and create sustainable solutions to uplift their futures. The Importance of Supporting the Girl Child In many parts of the world, especially in marginalized communities, girls still face significant challenges in accessing quality education and basic resources. Gender inequality, cultural norms, and financial barriers often limit girls’ potential, depriving them of their right to education and a prosperous future. At WERK, we are committed to tackling these issues by implementing gender-responsive initiatives that directly support girls in education and leadership. WERK’s Efforts to Empower Girls Breaking Barriers to Girls’ Education WERK has been at the forefront of advocating for inclusive and equitable education. Through programs such as the Youth, Education & Sports (YES) Program, we have provided opportunities for girls to develop leadership skills, resilience, and discipline through sports. By integrating sports into education, we’re breaking down stereotypes and offering girls a chance to shine both academically and physically. Keywords: girl child education, girls’ leadership, WERK advocacy Vocational Training and Skill Development One of WERK’s key initiatives is promoting vocational training to equip girls with practical skills that enhance their employability. We focus on empowering girls by offering training in technology, entrepreneurship, and life skills, giving them a competitive edge in the job market. Keywords: vocational training for girls, skill development, girl child empowerment Mentorship and Leadership Programs Our mentorship programs have been instrumental in guiding young girls towards success. WERK connects girls with female role models who inspire and mentor them to pursue their ambitions fearlessly. This support network fosters leadership and ensures that the next generation of girls is prepared to take on key roles in their communities. Keywords: girl child mentorship, leadership programs, women empowerment Advancing Gender Equality in Education Through our research and advocacy work, WERK has played a crucial role in influencing education policies that support gender equality. Our research findings on gender dynamics in education have been used to shape government and community interventions aimed at closing the gender gap in schools. Keywords: gender equality in education, WERK research, education policy advocacy Partnering for a Greener Future: Supporting Girls and the Environment In line with Kenya’s ambitious target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, WERK is integrating environmental conservation into our initiatives. We engage girls in environmental education and tree-planting activities to teach them the importance of sustainability. On Mazingira Day, WERK will mobilize girls across different communities to actively participate in tree-planting campaigns, not only contributing to environmental conservation but also empowering them to take leadership in climate action. Keywords: environmental conservation, tree planting, girls in climate action How You Can Support the Girl Child The journey to empowering the girl child requires collective effort. As WERK continues to lead initiatives that provide girls with access to education, leadership, and vocational skills, we invite you to partner with us. By supporting WERK, you are contributing to a future where every girl has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of her background.

Title: WERK’s Commitment to Mazingira Day: Supporting President Ruto’s 15 Billion Tree Ambition Mazingira Day, celebrated today, is a special moment for Kenya and a critical step in combating the effects of climate change. As we reflect on the environmental challenges we face, President William Ruto’s ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032 has sparked hope for a greener future. This initiative is crucial for restoring Kenya’s forests, enhancing biodiversity, and reversing the impacts of deforestation. WERK (Women Educational Researchers of Kenya) is proudly playing its part in this national effort. Why the 15 Billion Tree Initiative Matters Climate change poses a significant threat to Kenya, affecting everything from agriculture to water resources. By restoring our forests, we not only combat climate change but also safeguard our environment for future generations. Trees play a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide, enhancing biodiversity, improving water catchment areas, and combating soil erosion. The President’s plan, which aligns with the national commitment to environmental sustainability, calls upon organizations, communities, and individuals to take proactive steps in achieving this massive goal. WERK, an organization dedicated to education and community empowerment, recognizes the role it can play in driving environmental change. WERK’s Contribution to Mazingira Day and the Tree Planting Campaign WERK has long been committed to projects that foster environmental conservation, particularly through education and community-based initiatives. As part of its ongoing efforts, WERK has integrated tree planting and environmental awareness campaigns into its projects, actively engaging schools and communities in sustainability efforts. 1. School Tree Planting Initiatives WERK has supported schools across Kenya in establishing tree nurseries and planting campaigns. By empowering young learners to take action, WERK not only promotes environmental stewardship but also instills in the next generation a sense of responsibility towards preserving natural resources. Through education programs, students are taught the importance of trees in combating climate change, enhancing food security, and protecting biodiversity. 2. Community Engagement Programs WERK’s community-based programs have also played a crucial role in supporting sustainable environmental practices. In previous projects, WERK has collaborated with local communities to rehabilitate degraded lands by planting indigenous trees and promoting agroforestry. This has helped communities restore soil fertility, enhance water retention, and increase their resilience to climate shocks. 3. WERK’s Environmental Education Campaigns One of the key ways WERK has contributed to environmental conservation is through its educational initiatives. Over the years, WERK has conducted workshops and training sessions to raise awareness about climate change and sustainable practices. Through these campaigns, WERK has reached out to teachers, students, and community leaders to encourage active participation in tree planting drives. For instance, the environmental workshops organized in partnership with local stakeholders have equipped school administrators with the knowledge and tools to maintain tree nurseries within school compounds. These nurseries supply seedlings that are later planted on school grounds and surrounding areas, promoting a culture of tree planting and care. Supporting President Ruto’s Tree Planting Vision WERK is fully aligned with the government’s vision of a greener Kenya. On Mazingira Day, WERK has reaffirmed its commitment by rallying its network of schools, community groups, and volunteers to actively participate in tree planting activities. By leveraging its ongoing programs, WERK aims to plant thousands of trees over the coming months, contributing to the overall national target. The Way Forward: Scaling Up Tree Planting Efforts As we move forward, WERK is determined to scale up its efforts to support the 15 billion tree initiative. Some of the key areas of focus will include: Expanding partnerships with local governments, schools, and environmental organizations to increase the scale of tree planting drives. Integrating tree planting into educational programs to ensure students and teachers play a central role in environmental conservation. Empowering communities to take ownership of environmental conservation through capacity-building programs that teach sustainable farming practices and tree care. Conclusion Mazingira Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect our environment and fight against climate change. WERK is proud to contribute to this cause, not only today but for years to come, as we work hand-in-hand with the government, schools, and communities to plant trees, raise environmental awareness, and build a sustainable future for Kenya. As we march towards the 2032 goal of planting 15 billion trees, WERK remains dedicated to making every seedling count.