Lewa Wildlife Conservancy has transformed learning at Rugusu Primary and Junior Secondary School in Meru County by commissioning five modern classrooms on Tuesday, January 20.
Equipped with electricity, Starlink internet, water, and modern furniture, the classrooms aim to boost enrollment, enhance digital learning, and prepare students for the 21st-century economy. The project is part of Lewa’s wider effort to upgrade schools across the region and strengthen public-private partnerships in education.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Lewa’s Chief Programmes and Partnerships Officer, John Kinoti, said the project highlights the power of collaboration between local communities, government and development partners in driving sustainable development.
“Education is central to transforming generations. A learner spends the better part of their formative years in school, with most of that time spent in classrooms. Providing safe, well-equipped learning spaces is therefore essential for meaningful learning and a better future,” Kinoti said.
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He noted that improved facilities at Rugusu school have significantly boosted enrolment and attendance, with the school population rising from 112 learners to more than 600 in recent years.
She added that the conservancy currently supports 28 schools within the region.
According to Kinoti, Lewa has constructed more than 100 classrooms across the county, many fitted with digital smart boards, Starlink Wi-Fi and supported through teacher training to enhance digital learning.
“Our education investments are designed to complement conservation by improving livelihoods and creating long-term opportunities for surrounding communities,” she said.
At Rugusu School, the intervention extends beyond classrooms.
The conservancy has also supported the construction of a kitchen and dining hall, boys’ and girls’ dormitories, an office block, staffroom and the provision of office equipment, including a printer used for examinations.
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“The land hosting the school was acquired by Lewa Wildlife Conservancy with support from parents. We have also sunk a borehole that supplies water to the school and the wider community,” Kinoti added.
The five newly commissioned classrooms are part of 12 modern units constructed at the school at a total cost of Ksh8 million.
Kinoti said the investment aligns with national education priorities, particularly the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, which places strong emphasis on digital literacy.
“Education in the 21st century must embrace digital learning to prepare children for the modern job market and contribute to the growth of the digital economy,” she said.
County Director of Education Joseph Maki praised the initiative, saying it had addressed critical infrastructure gaps in public schools and directly improved learner morale and attendance.
“This is a major milestone. Conducive learning environments enhance self-esteem, increase enrolment and improve attendance. Many schools in this region are still grappling with serious infrastructure challenges,” Maki said.
Parents have also welcomed the transformation.
Philis Kanana, whose children attend Rugusu School, said the new facilities have eased the daily burden on families.
“I used to struggle to fetch water and firewood every day. Today, we have a borehole and other amenities. Children are now coming from far because of the improved facilities,” she said.
By John Majau
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