Many deaf children and teenagers in Kenya suffer in silence with the various obstacles associated with deafness. A vast majority of deaf Kenyan teenagers do not have access to adequate secondary education, leading to a disadvantaged community of unskilled individuals. Only 12% of deaf children get the opportunity to attend an appropriate special educational needs secondary school, and there are currently no available facilities in the eastern province of Kenya. 

In response to this urgent issue local Churches and the Mothers Union in Mbeere have united in an initiative to set up a much needed, dedicated secondary school for deaf teenagers in a village called Riandu, in Embu County.  This grassroots idea is supported by both the local community and international student volunteers who are embarking on an ambitious building programme, phased over 3 years, and due to commence in August 2014.  A Nottingham University student is heading up the UK core team consisting of dedicated student members who will enthusiastically organise and fundraise for this vital project. Meanwhile Samantha Worrall, a former Nottingham University student, and now local Architect, is overseeing and advising throughout the design process. In Kenya planning and fundraising are already under way, and the local team is looking forward to welcoming and working with the volunteers from the UK. 

Alongside the provision of specialised educational facilities, dormitory style living accommodation will provide an on-site home for up to 200 teenagers during their school terms. The students will be able to experience a variety of uplifting & educational spaces across the site in a unique living and learning environment. In the coming years the Riandu Deaf School, will provide a life changing impact, bringing hope and opportunity to thousands of young people. Your support towards this project would be greatly appreciated.

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