Support for Kenyan school welcomed by students

China's embassy in Kenya and the Kenya-China Economic and Trade Association, or KCETA, donated $84,800 to MCEDO Beijing School in Nairobi, Kenya on Tuesday, supporting comprehensive facility upgrades and educational opportunities for students in the Mathare community, which is one of Kenya's biggest slums.

The school, which was established with funding from China's embassy in Kenya, has been receiving donations from Chinese communities in Kenya since its establishment in 2007.

Benedict Kiage, director of MCEDO Beijing School, said that with constant support from China's embassy in Kenya and Chinese enterprises, the number of students in the school has been increasing, and facilities have been improving.

"We now have 585 students, meaning we are approaching 600 students by next year," he said. "We started with only 200 students and the number keeps growing.

"We now have science laboratory equipment and instructional materials, so other students will come because they know they get quality education."

The latest donation will be used for classroom renovations, enhanced lighting systems, storage lockers, modern desks, educational materials, science equipment, and essential food supplies.

Major donors include China Road and Bridge Corporation and KEDA Ceramic.

Student representative Latifah Natasha Omondi, 13, expressed gratitude for the support, saying: "Today, our school looks brighter, cleaner, safer, and more beautiful. You have shown us that you believe in our future, and this encourages us to work even harder."

China's Ambassador Guo Haiyan noted that the school's journey represents more than just educational development.

"The journey of MCEDO Beijing School is not only the story of self-reliance and perseverance but also the epitome of China-Kenya friendly cooperation," she said, highlighting how the partnership exemplifies the "community with a shared future" between the two nations.

KCETA Chairman Yu Xiaodong emphasized the association's ongoing commitment, saying: "We will visit regularly, listen to your needs, and provide support wherever we can - today, and in the years to come."

He encouraged students to "study hard, dream big, and one day become proud contributors to your nation and to the enduring friendship between Kenya and China".

zhangchi@chinadaily.com.cn