What to Expect When the Classroom Becomes the Starting Point

By Debbie Odenyi, RISE Programme Specialist, Girl Rising

When I think about the start of Naserian in Narok County schools, I see it as the planting of seeds in fertile ground. Each classroom becomes a place where hope and possibility take root. For adolescent girls and boys, it is more than just lessons. It is the beginning of a journey in which their voices are nurtured, their dreams are validated and their futures are opened wide. For the community, it is a reminder that investing in their children's education means investing in everyone.

Now in the second academic term, I am most eager to witness the subtle but powerful changes that signal transformation. An adolescent who once sat quietly now raises their hand with confidence. Teachers begin to embrace gender equitable approaches that spark curiosity among learners. Parents start to speak with pride about their children’s progress. These are the moments that tell us that resilience and leadership are being born in everyday interactions.

Families are at the heart of this work. The parental engagement sessions, which begin in this second phase, will ensure that the lessons learned in school are reinforced at home. Parents become allies, champions, and role models, creating a circle of support that strengthens their children’s education journey. When families stand beside their children, the impact of RISE multiplies.

A successful second term, to me, is not only measured in numbers and surveys, though we track them carefully. It is also measured in the sounds and sights throughout the community: laughter echoing through classrooms, questions asked boldly, and stories of adolescent boys and girls inspiring one another. It looks like teachers feeling supported, parents expressing pride, and adolescents walking to school with determination.

And to the adolescent boys and girls continuing with their journey at Naserian, I would say this: you are not alone. You are part of a community that believes in your strength and your dreams. Naserian is a safe space where your voice matters, where you can grow without fear, and where your future is yours to shape.

What Girl Rising is building together with our partners is not just education; it is transformation. We are creating mind shifts. Parents meaningfully supporting their children, teachers embracing new possibilities, learners daring to dream bigger with agency to succeed and change their community in Narok.