A project co-founded by Meeting Needs earlier this year has reduced child abuse in 12 schools impacting over 10,000 children, along with teachers and parents, in Kenya.

The Tushinde School Outreach Programme was launched in its current form in July 2022, following the launch of a Family Support Programme which delivered significant improvements in child health and family income but left children at risk of physical abuse within the school environment as a result of the use of corporal punishment by staff who had little understanding of child rights.  Meanwhile parents still expected children to be beaten at school. In one case, Tushinde had to withdraw children from a school where a child had been beaten so badly, he was hospitalised.

The School Outreach Programme along with the Child Rights Clubs were initiated with the goal of improving the protection, well-being and rights of children in vulnerable urban communities in Nairobi. The programme not only focuses on protecting children from corporate punishment but also on advocating for positive discipline, child protection and the broader promotion of children’s rights. The project has empowered children by raising awareness of their rights. Workshops on child protection have equipped both children and parents with the tools to report and prevent abuse, leading to an increased sense of safety among the children.

Meeting Needs donated £5,000 towards the school grants part of the School Outreach Programme and each school that meets the safeguarding requirements set out by Tushinde is entitled to apply for funds to improve their learning environment as an incentive.

The School Outreach Programme has set up 12 Child Rights Clubs have been established in 12 of the 13 participating schools. Each club is made up of students with active membership and leadership structures. These clubs serve as a platform for children to learn about their rights, discuss challenges and engage in peer-led advocacy on issues affecting them. Over 1,200 students are currently engaged in club activities with a focus on leadership development, peer education and child protection advocacy. Student leaders have been trained to manage club activities, raise awareness about children’s rights and act as ambassadors within their schools. As a result, students now feel empowered to speak out when they witness abuse or mistreatment, leading to a more proactive approach to child protection

Rebecca M’mbone, Programmes Manager at Tushinde, said: “Our School Outreach Programme is dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for every child. Through collaborative efforts with school administrations, teachers, parents, the community, and the children themselves, we strive to promote each student’s well-being and academic success. Together, we’re building a foundation that ensures children are protected, empowered, and ready to thrive.”