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in partnership with .....
HELP AID AFRICA &
MARYAM LIBRARY FOUNDATION
A look at Kenya’s Library system (Problem)
Studies show that the Kenyan library system materials are scarce and the ones available are outdated and hence not relevant to the current Kenyan education system.
KNLS (kenya national library service) has not been able to meet the teaching and learning needs of teachers and of students because they have given very little consideration to the present school curriculums.
On a visit to a number of Kenyan schools ,especially rural schools, you find that the schools don't even have a library room , let alone the books that would have been playing great roles in giving students a more effective education by increasing the quality and quantity delivered.
The aims of primary education in child-centered education reflect the interest and characteristics of the child and include such aspects as intrinsic interests (eagerness, curiosity,absorption) and autonomy (making independent judgements, choosing with confidence, self direction, learning by discovery)
The library system implementation in the country should play a great role in developing the child’s self expression, self discipline, self reliance, utilization of senses and development of ability for clear logical thought and critical judgement. The approach should bring to mind a large number of related terms - self expression, play way, learning by experience, inquiry and learning by discovery among others. Through these methods , the child is allowed to follow the natural course of his felt interests without arbitrary interruption. The teacher's role will hence change from the controller of the learning to that of the organizer of education to an increasing extent, his role depends upon an ability to organize learning situations and manage the resources provided.
Solution
This calls for the need for libraries in primary and secondary schools.
Today's learning is accelerated and broadened by the use of many and varied devices and methods. The library becomes increasingly important in teaching for not only does it supply enrichment materials at all levels of difficulty (average, gifted, slow and problem child) its store of books, pictures, pamphlets, maps, films, filmsstrips, recordings and all printed media makes it a gold -mine for teachers and students
Facts
A food library has a vital role to play in any good system of education, it is an important area of educational resource, without which the learning processes in the school curriculum can not take place at a satisfactory level. Indeed, if a school aims at really educating the students entrusted to it and not merely teaching, the library is a facility which can make an essential contribution to such a purpose..
To develop a child's intellect, a good library service is indispensable.
For effectiveness of the system, there is need for closer cooperation and coordination among the teachers , parents and the librarians in satisfying the book needs of the student
Availability of a library system will expose the students to the world of knowledge and the joy and experiences that can be derived from books by providing a wide variety of resources like newspapers, magazines, journals and types of books both fiction and non-fiction.
The books will play a great role in stimulating the students' curiosity and quest for knowledge, helping the children to extend their creative and imaginative horizons through the use of well selected and well displayed library materials.
Consequently, the students acquires skills in selecting important points, synthesizing information, organizing it to suit the purpose for which it is intended, evaluates it and finally formulating their own realizations , and applying the information to solve problems.
Empowering Rural Kenyan Students: The Success of the Help Africa & Mariam Library Foundation Partnership
A transformative partnership between Help Africa and the Mariam Library Foundation has successfully established 40 vibrant libraries across rural schools in Kenya, marking a significant step towards educational equity and empowerment. This initiative addresses the critical lack of access to educational resources in these underserved communities, where books and learning materials are often scarce.
Project Success and Impact:
The project's success is rooted in a collaborative approach, combining Help Africa's logistical expertise and community engagement with the Mariam Library Foundation's deep understanding of local needs and commitment to literacy. Key achievements include:
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Establishment of 40 Fully Equipped Libraries: Each library is stocked with a diverse range of age-appropriate books, covering various subjects including core curriculum materials, fiction, non-fiction, and culturally relevant stories.
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Community Involvement: The project fostered strong community participation, with local residents, teachers, and parents actively involved in library setup and management.
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Teacher Training: Comprehensive training programs were conducted for teachers and librarians, equipping them with the skills to effectively manage the libraries and promote reading among students.
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Sustainable Model: The partnership focused on creating a sustainable model, ensuring the libraries' long-term viability through community ownership and resource mobilization.
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Measurable Improvements: Early assessments indicate increased student engagement in reading, improved literacy rates, and a heightened interest in learning.
How the Libraries Will Empower Students:
These libraries are more than just repositories of books; they are gateways to knowledge and opportunities. They will empower students in several crucial ways:
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Enhanced Literacy and Language Skills: Access to diverse reading materials will significantly improve students' literacy, vocabulary, and language comprehension. This will lay a strong foundation for academic success across all subjects.
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Expanded Knowledge and Understanding: The libraries will expose students to a wealth of information, broadening their understanding of the world, fostering critical thinking, and stimulating intellectual curiosity.
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Improved Academic Performance: Access to supplementary learning resources will support classroom learning, enabling students to deepen their understanding of concepts and improve their academic performance.
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Cultivation of a Reading Culture: The libraries will promote a culture of reading for pleasure, encouraging students to develop a lifelong love of learning.
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Empowerment and Self-Confidence: By providing access to knowledge and opportunities, the libraries will empower students to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams.
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Access to Cultural and Relevant Materials: The libraries contain materials that reflect the students own culture, and are relevant to their day to day lives. This will make the learning experience more engaging.
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Access to Technology: In some cases, the libraries will have access to computers and internet, allowing students to expand their knowledge beyond the books provided.
The Help Africa and Mariam Library Foundation partnership exemplifies the transformative power of collaboration in addressing educational challenges. By providing access to quality learning resources, these libraries are not just changing the lives of individual students; they are contributing to the development of a more informed and empowered generation in rural Kenya.