Nyakach: Learners at Olwa Neema Special School for the hearing impaired in Nyakach Sub-County, Kisumu County have received a major boost after the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), in partnership with the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK), commissioned a new twin dormitory valued at Sh3.6 million. The facility is designed to provide dignity, safety, and accessibility, easing overcrowding and creating a supportive environment that promotes equal opportunities for learners with disabilities.
According to Kenya News Agency, the construction of the dormitory cost Sh2.6 million, while KenGen furnished it at an additional Sh1 million to ensure learners have a comfortable and fully equipped space. Speaking during the commissioning, NFDK Trustee Prof. Julia Ojiambo stated that the dormitory would enhance the learning experience by improving enrolment, retention, and overall well-being.
Prof. Ojiambo reaffirmed NFDK's commitment to ensuring children with disabilities have equal access to education, adding that institutions such as Olwa Neema Special School played a critical role in supporting inclusion. 'We will continue supporting this school to ensure no learner with a disability is left behind,' she said.
Representing KenGen's Managing Director and CEO Eng. Peter Njenga, William Rahedi lauded the partnership, describing it as a turning point in efforts to empower learners with hearing impairments. 'Many special institutions face persistent challenges ranging from limited facilities to shortages of specialized staff. This initiative offers dignity, safety, and an improved environment for learners to thrive academically,' Rahedi noted. He encouraged the students to use the new dormitory as a stepping stone towards achieving their full potential.
NFDK has so far supported over 300 flagship projects across the country targeting institutions for learners with disabilities. These include accessible dormitories, vocational workshops, classrooms, dining halls, computer labs, and therapy facilities. The Fund also provides grants for equipment, renovations, and water and sanitation programmes.
Prof. Ojiambo emphasized that creating accommodating and accessible environments remained key to ensuring learners with disabilities unlock their dreams. 'We believe that an enabling environment is critical to supporting learners with disabilities in accessing quality education,' she said.