Ngara Comprehensive School of Deaf receives Lab equipment

By Ruth Nga’ng’a

Ngara Comprehensive School for the Deaf in Nakuru received a major boost on Thursday, April 30, after prominent banker and women’s rights advocate Dr Jennifer Riria donated modern laboratory equipment and sanitary towels to the institution.

Dr Riria, who is the Group Chief Executive Officer of Echo Network Africa (formerly Kenya Women Holding), said the donation is aimed at strengthening practical science learning for the hundreds of deaf learners enrolled at the school from across the region.

She noted that access to quality laboratory tools will enhance the students’ ability to engage in hands-on experiments, thereby deepening their understanding of science subjects and opening pathways to careers in STEM fields.

“Every kid should receive the greatest education possible. These lab instruments will foster curiosity, enable experimentation, and provide a solid foundation in STEM disciplines for our future generation of scientists,” she said.

Boost to STEM learning

Dr. Riria emphasized that inclusive education must be supported with adequate resources to ensure that learners with disabilities are not left behind. She added that the initiative reflects a broader commitment to bridging educational gaps and empowering marginalized groups through targeted interventions.

Alongside the laboratory equipment, she also donated sanitary towels, highlighting the importance of menstrual health in ensuring that girls remain in school and maintain their dignity and confidence.

Call to end gender-based violence

During the visit, Dr. Riria strongly condemned the rising cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide reported in Nakuru County and across the country. She stressed the need for economic and financial empowerment of women as a key strategy in addressing the vice.

“Empowering women in our society is the most effective weapon against GBV,” she stated.

She further noted that her organization has consistently supported women and girls through microfinance, education, and advocacy programmes aimed at building safer and more resilient communities.

The school’s administration expressed gratitude for the support, saying the donations will significantly improve learning outcomes and enhance the overall welfare of the students.