Education for a Job or a Sustainable Future?

By Sr. Lydia M. Okang’a

Every few months, the streets of Nairobi echo with the voices of young people protesting against unemployment. This April was no different, as they marched with placards declaring, “You said education is the key to life, yet all doors are locked.” This poignant message raises critical questions: Is our education system truly effective? Is it genuinely the key to employment? Or are our schools failing to nurture self-reliant, innovative citizens?

In Kenya, the primary focus of education has traditionally been on securing employment rather than fostering personal growth and sustainability. Many young people attend school with the sole aim of landing a job, not necessarily to better themselves or their communities. This mindset calls into question the adequacy of our current educational approaches.

The introduction of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) brings a glimmer of hope. Could CBC transform our education system and equip the younger generation with the skills needed for a sustainable future?

Consider the recent example of a young graduate who made headlines for earning her PhD at just 17 years old. This remarkable achievement sparked intense discussions on Kenyan WhatsApp groups, with many marveling at the possibility of such an accomplishment at an age when most students are still in high school. This story underscores the importance of nurturing talent from an early age.

At LCMC, we are committed to this very cause. We partner with schools to support young people who show promise in media and performing arts. By nurturing their talents in music, art, and acting, we empower them to script, produce, and showcase their creative works.

If you want to see your students thrive and grow their talents, consider collaborating with LCMC. Together, we can pave the way for a generation of innovative, self-reliant individuals ready to shape a sustainable future. Reach out to us today and let’s make a difference.

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