In the dusty Manyani’s estate in Nakuru East Sub county is a unique school giving hope to children from needy families.

Started 4 years ago, Rivers of Joy Academy has continued to give hope to parents who cannot afford the expenses of basic Early Child Education for their children.

Unlike other schools where parents are required to pay fees as well as cater for the school uniforms, Rivers of Joy Academy has waived these expenses as a way of helping families.

Ms Veronica Melisa, Headteacher at Rivers of Joy Academy.

Photo credit: PRISTONE MAMBILI| NMG

The School’s head Veronica Melisa who has specialized in matters Early Childhood education says the harsh times parents in the area were going through is what prompted the idea of starting the school.

In a normal school, parents have to part with Kshs. 3,500 per term for ECDE, an amount Melisa said many parents in the area cannot afford.

The implication, she said, is that many children miss out on the foundation of early basic education, only for them to join grade 1 when they are around 7 years old, as primary education is free.

“We saw the need in a community where most children were not being enrolled in ECD centres which is a critical stage in a child’s development,” said Melisa.

Currently, the School has over 100 ECD learners, 4 teachers and other subordinate staff with PP1, PP2, Grade 1 and Grade 2 lessons taking place.

“We are optimistic that in future we shall have upgraded to have other grades for our learners instead of shifting them to other schools,” she said.

Director and founder of Rivers of Joy academy Richard Amakobe

Photo credit: PRISTONE MAMBILI| NMG

Director and Founder of the School Pastor Richard Amakobe is also the lead Pastor at Life Empowerment Family Centre Church in Manyani estate.

He admits that majority of the parents from the area are facing harsh economic times, a situation he witnessed during his early evangelism mission, prompting him to find a solution through education.

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Inside school that offers Free ECD education to Needy pupils

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Pristone Mambili