Eastern Produce Kenya (EPK) has taken a significant step towards enhancing STEM education in Nandi County with the commissioning of eight state-of-the-art science laboratories in local schools.
The laboratories, which have undergone a Sh16 million upgrade, are expected to provide students with the necessary tools and resources to excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Three of the newly equipped laboratories are located within EPK's tea estates, while the remaining five are in neighbouring community schools.
This strategic approach aims to bridge the educational gap and ensure that students from all backgrounds have access to quality STEM education.
EPK's commitment to education was emphasized by Company Director Leah Kibii Chirchir during the commissioning ceremony.
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She highlighted the positive impact that the company's previous investment in a science laboratory at Savani Secondary School has had on student performance, with an increasing number of students gaining admission to university.
"Four years ago, EPK, through a partnership, built the first Science Laboratory at Savani Secondary School and the examination results, particularly in Science Subjects have significantly improved," Kibii remarked
"In 2020, the first cohort to sit KCSE following the construction of the science laboratory managed to get 2 students transition to University. Since then, the school’s been posting a positive deviation, with 4 students transitioning to University in 2021, 8 in 2022 while in 2023, 14 students transitioned to university."
The new laboratories are seen as a crucial step in supporting the government's Competency Based Curriculum, which focuses on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity skills.
EPK believes that investing in education is not only contributing to the social and economic development of the community but also laying the foundation for future generations.
Beyond the science laboratories, EPK has also implemented other education initiatives, including a secondary school scholarship program and support for Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres.
These efforts have benefited over 60,000 learners since 2019, with investments totaling more than Sh30 million.
As EPK continues to work towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4, which calls for quality education for all, its commitment to education is evident.
By providing bursaries, establishing schools, and supporting digital literacy, the company is empowering students to reach their full potential and contribute to a brighter future.