Approved schools in Kenya serve a unique and vital purpose in the juvenile justice system. These institutions are designed to rehabilitate children aged between 10 and 15 who have been found guilty of committing crimes, ensuring they are reintegrated into society as responsible and productive citizens.
Children aged 15 to 18 with similar cases are sent to borstal institutions, which fall under the prisons department. Approved schools, however, operate under the Department of Children’s Services and focus on providing education and rehabilitation.
This article provides a detailed list of the approved schools in Kenya, shedding light on their operations, locations, and contributions to the nation’s child welfare system.
1. Kabete Approved School
Overview:
Established between 1910 and 1912 by the colonial government, Kabete Approved School is one of Kenya’s oldest rehabilitation schools. The institution, later renamed Kabete Rehabilitation School, is a public boarding primary school managed by the national government.
Location: Lower Kabete, Nairobi County
Curriculum: The school follows the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and integrates counseling and life skills training into its programs to help rehabilitate and reintegrate its students into society.
2. Wamumu Approved School
Overview:
Wamumu Approved School is a public boys’ boarding primary school located in the serene region of Mwea, Kirinyaga County. The institution focuses on providing a balanced educational and vocational training program.
Location: Mwea, Kirinyaga County
Special Programs: The school offers agricultural training, empowering students with farming skills suitable for self-sustenance after rehabilitation.
3. Kakamega Rehabilitation School
Overview:
Located in Bukhungu, Kakamega County, this school serves as a rehabilitation center for boys. It is run by the national government and ensures that students receive a holistic education and behavioral reform support.
Location: Bukhungu, Kakamega County
Features: Counseling services, vocational training, and access to co-curricular activities such as sports.
4. Othaya Rehabilitation School
Overview:
Othaya Rehabilitation School is a boys’ public boarding primary school situated in Nyeri County. Sponsored by the central government, the institution emphasizes moral and behavioral correction.
Location: Othaya, Nyeri County
Notable Programs: Students here benefit from mentoring programs facilitated by local community leaders and government representatives.
5. Likoni Rehabilitation School
Overview:
Likoni Rehabilitation School is a public boys’ boarding school located in the coastal region of Mombasa County. The institution blends the 8-4-4 curriculum (currently transitioning to CBC) with life skills training.
Location: Likoni, Mombasa County
Special Programs: The school offers workshops on entrepreneurship and financial literacy, preparing students for life beyond rehabilitation.
6. Kirigiti Girls Rehabilitation School
Overview:
Kirigiti Girls Rehabilitation School is one of the few rehabilitation schools catering exclusively to girls. Located in Kiambu County, the school provides an education based on the 8-4-4 curriculum alongside vocational training.
Location: Kiambu County
Vocational Skills: Students learn tailoring, hairdressing, and other marketable skills that enable them to become self-reliant.
7. Kisumu Approved School
Overview:
Kisumu Approved School is dedicated to ensuring that children who pass through its doors are equipped to live as law-abiding citizens. It provides primary education and psychosocial support.
Location: Kisumu County
Focus Areas: Emphasis on character development, counseling, and community service activities.
8. Kericho Approved School
Overview:
Kericho Approved School, situated in Ainamoi, is a mixed primary school. It focuses on integrating male and female students in a structured and supportive environment for rehabilitation.
Location: Ainamoi, Kericho County
Programs: Life skills, mentorship sessions, and art therapy for emotional expression.
9. Gitathuru Approved School
Overview:
Located near Kariobangi in Nairobi County, Gitathuru Approved School provides students with education, counseling, and a chance to rebuild their lives.
Location: Kariobangi, Nairobi County
Unique Features: Students engage in recreational activities such as music, drama, and sports to enhance teamwork and personal growth.
10. Dagoretti Girls Rehabilitation School
Overview:
Dagoretti Girls Rehabilitation School is another institution catering exclusively to girls. Located in Kikuyu, the school offers academic, vocational, and psychosocial programs to aid rehabilitation.
Location: Kikuyu, Kiambu County
Vocational Training: Courses in baking, tailoring, and craft-making are part of the curriculum, equipping students with employable skills.
The Role of Approved Schools in Kenya
Approved schools in Kenya play a crucial role in the juvenile justice system. Beyond providing education, they emphasize:
- Rehabilitation and Behavior Correction: Through counseling and mentorship, these institutions help students reform their behavior.
- Skill Acquisition: Vocational training equips students with skills they can use to earn a livelihood post-rehabilitation.
- Psychosocial Support: Addressing the emotional and psychological needs of the children helps them cope with past trauma and rebuild self-esteem.
- Reintegration Programs: These schools often work closely with families and communities to ensure that rehabilitated children transition smoothly back into society.
Challenges Facing Approved Schools
Despite their significance, approved schools face challenges such as:
- Underfunding: Limited resources can hinder the implementation of quality programs.
- Overcrowding: An increasing number of cases has led to congestion in some facilities.
- Stigma: Rehabilitated children often face societal stigma, making reintegration difficult.
Efforts are underway by the Kenyan government and non-governmental organizations to address these challenges and enhance the efficiency of these schools.
Approved schools in Kenya offer hope and a second chance to children who find themselves on the wrong side of the law. By providing education, life skills, and emotional support, these institutions contribute significantly to building a safer and more inclusive society.
If you’re interested in learning more about Kenya’s juvenile justice system or supporting these institutions, consider visiting one near you or reaching out to the Department of Children’s Services.
