Gitathuru

Head Teacher’s Greeting:

Greetings from Missions of Hope Gitathuru. It’s the end of another amazing and blessed school term. We had various activities that took place during the course of the term, and we would like to share some of the activities with you. Thank you so much for taking part in this journey of transforming lives. Many blessings upon you.

Gladys Musili

Head Teacher, Gitathuru

Current stats:

Number of Students: 863

Unsponsored Students: 363

Term Highlights: 

• We’re thrilled to share that 103 students took part in the school music festivals, showcasing their talents in folk songs, singing games, and poems for the very first time. Their performance was so impressive that they advanced to the regional level. We’re grateful for this opportunity and the chance it gave our learners to express and cultivate their talents.
• In addition, our Grade 5 students from Gitathuru participated in a spelling bee competition. Ten of them have qualified for the regional level in the inter-MOHI championship. This participation not only enhances their literacy skills but also provides valuable mentorship.
•  The boys and girls from Gitathuru’s Grade 6 had the incredible experience of attending the Angaza Discovery Camp in Kilifi. This spiritual growth opportunity has also contributed to an increase in their decision-making abilities, as observed and noted by both parents and teachers. We’re truly thankful for this enriching experience.

Transformation Story:

James* is an 8th-grade student at MOHI Gitathuru Centre, and is making remarkable strides. He comes from a family of four siblings, holding the position of the third-born. At MOHI, his sister is a 5th grader and is also part of the community. James’s journey with MOHI began while he was in 6th grade, having transferred from another school. Sadly, his elder sibling had previously dropped out after 8th grade due to financial constraints. The second-born is currently attending a day secondary school. The family’s economic circumstances are challenging, with his father working as a bus conductor and his mother selling vegetables.

When James joined the MOHI program, his family was facing severe hardships. Their previous school often sent them home due to unpaid fees, negatively impacting their academic performance. James’s journey has been one of transformation, as he initially entered MOHI with a score of 270 marks but has since raised it to over 400 marks out of the possible 500. His goal is to achieve 432 marks in the upcoming end-of-primary school education tests, surpassing the 2022 record of 431 marks. He dreams of becoming an engineer in the future.

James attributes his impressive progress to a variety of factors. In MOHI, he receives two daily meals, a stark contrast to his previous school where this was not the case. Additionally, he benefits from MOHI’s mentorship program, which has contributed to his improved performance. Through his time at MOHI Gitathuru Centre, he has developed self-awareness and enhanced his focus on academics.

MOHI’s impact extends beyond James’s individual growth. The family’s holistic transformation is evident, particularly in his father’s life. Previously struggling with alcoholism, he has turned a new leaf, significantly reducing his alcohol consumption over the past year. He now contributes financially to the household, a change facilitated by family evangelism conducted by social workers.

The children’s spiritual growth is also apparent, as they actively participate in evening prayers for the family. James’s mother has experienced economic empowerment offered by social workers. Financial management and business expansion training have allowed her to improve her business operations, enabling her to cover school commitment fees and provide meals for James and Elizabeth. These positive changes have bolstered James’s self-esteem and academic focus, fostering an environment conducive to learning both at school and at home.

*Name changed to protect privacy

Partner Activity:

• Eastside Christian Church had an impactful visit to Gitathuru Centre. They provided dental care by applying fluoride to the students’ teeth and supplied them with toothbrushes, greatly enhancing their oral hygiene. Additionally, they undertook a home improvement project for a parent from Gitathuru, providing a bed and bedding.
• We are thankful for Westvalley Christian Church as well. They made a significant impact by visiting our students at Gitathuru Centre and the surrounding community. They organized a Vacation Bible School (VBS) for students ranging from kindergarten to Grade 5. Moreover, they took 60 sixth grade students on an enriching field trip and hosted a special appreciation lunch for our dedicated staff. These activities have boosted motivation among both students and staff members.
• We extend our blessings to the Cucamonga Valley Medical Group for their visit to our center. Their initiative included conducting health screenings for kindergarteners and organizing a Community Health Fair. These efforts have resulted in improved health for our learners and have also fostered a positive health connection between the school and the community. The community members and parents have warmly embraced the valuable information shared during the screening.

Prayer Request:

• Pray for the success of our Gitathuru candidates who are eagerly awaiting the Kenya National tests. These tests are crucial for students in Grades three, six, and eight because they determine whether the student will join the next grade, and we hope for their achievements to be remarkable.
• With heartfelt gratitude, we give thanks to God for His unwavering provision for us and the communities that we serve, even in the face of the economic challenges our country is currently undergoing. Your prayers are greatly appreciated during these times.