Children in Freedom School has finally been acknowledged as one of the top 10 schools across the globe by the top-notch T4 Education Initiative. Ain’t that a wow?
Now, here is what makes it tick. Under the category of Overcoming Adversity, this school has been praised for having a strong African culture. Children in Freedom School take a rather different approach than most schools in Kenya, which still adhere to the postcolonial curriculum. Children in Freedom School use the Afrocentric curriculum, which calls for a lot of learning in traditional African languages and history. Reconnecting with our roots, I see!
Looking at the students, you will realize something—they come to school in very bright African attire and ‘lesos.’ That’s because this school doesn’t believe in following the Ministry of Education’s policy on school uniforms. Again, wearing the African attire instills feelings of heritage and cultural diversity in them. A plain uniform isn’t required to know how to appreciate a good-looking African print, right?
Now, what has impressed T4 Education? The school’s holistic approach to education. Besides giving the basics, the school delves into public speaking and enhances the critical thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurship of the learners. And get this: by the age of three, these little ones are already literate, enjoying their multiplicity of languages. Ain’t that some great brainwork?
T4 Education has further applauded Children in Freedom School for understanding the uniqueness of African children. By making some changes to the curriculum that will address these problems, the school has put conditions of deep pride, self-efficacy, and identity on the students. It makes them adore their skin color, natural hair, and their brilliance. In fact, they have even adopted African prints and outfits to propel the very powerful African value of ‘Ubuntu’—the essence of oneness and humanness.
Let’s not forget to mention the other incredible schools that made it to the top 10. We’ve got Cadoxton Primary School from Wales, UK, Colegio Impacto de MAIA from Guatemala, Escuela Litoral Austral from Chile, Feversham Primary Academy from England, UK, Colegio Campestre ICAL from Chía, Colombia, Government Girls Day Secondary School from Sokoto, Nigeria, Physics and Mathematics Specialized School from Armenia, Snehalaya English Medium School from India, and the Max Rayne Hand in Hand School from Jerusalem, Israel. These institutions are setting the bar high for education worldwide.
