In a remarkable journey of cross-border educational engagement, I had the privilege of visiting Daraja Academy in Kenya, representing Hawthorne – Scribner High School, an initiative of Arlington Academy of Hope Uganda. This experience was not only enlightening but also deeply inspiring, revealing the power of education in transforming lives across East Africa.
About Daraja Academy
Located near Nanyuki, Kenya, Daraja Academy is a unique secondary school dedicated to educating bright girls from underserved backgrounds. It blends academic excellence with leadership development, ensuring its students graduate not only with knowledge but with the confidence and skills to uplift their communities.
Purpose of the Visit
The visit was part of a broader mission to strengthen partnerships between educational institutions in Uganda and Kenya, focusing on shared learning, cultural exchange, and mutual inspiration. Representing Hawthorne – Scribner High School, I aimed to explore best practices in girls’ education, community engagement, and holistic learning models.
Lessons and Inspiration
At Daraja, I was warmly welcomed by both staff and students. I observed a nurturing learning environment where each student is valued and encouraged to dream big. Their Women of Integrity, Strength, and Hope (W.I.S.H.) curriculum stood out as a brilliant integration of academic and life skills education.
Conversations with the students revealed powerful stories of resilience and determination. Many of them are the first in their families to attend high school, and they carry the hopes of their communities with pride. Their commitment to giving back echoes the same values we nurture at Arlington Academy of Hope Uganda.
Building Bridges
The visit sparked ideas for future collaborations between Daraja and our schools under the Arlington Academy of Hope. From student exchange programmes to teacher training and joint projects, the potential for shared growth is immense.
Moving Forward
This visit reaffirmed my belief in the role of education as a bridge between nations, communities, and lives. I return with renewed passion to continue empowering young minds in Uganda, inspired by the model and spirit of Daraja Academy.
Let us continue to champion quality education, gender equity, and youth leadership in East Africa and beyond.
