Kenya Special Schools

Hands Around the World is supporting St Lucy’s Primary and Secondary Schools in Meru, Kenya—serving 334 blind and visually impaired students—by helping to provide 30 refurbished laptops with screen reader software.

The headteachers, Sister Judith and Sister Jackline, are leading efforts to tackle the stigma around disability and show what visually impaired learners can achieve. The schools have also welcomed sighted students, creating an inclusive environment that’s breaking down barriers and raising academic standards for all.

Without laptops, students rely on limited braille machines and expensive paper. Access to digital materials is delayed, and it’s difficult for teachers to keep up with the national curriculum. The laptops allow students to take notes easily, access learning instantly, and develop essential ICT skills—making learning more accessible, efficient, and empowering. This project helps level the playing field and give these determined students the tools they need to thrive.

Water pipes connected from the main water source to the school to provide access to clean safe water. Water is now available in the kitchens, school dormitory, bathrooms and toilets – improving the water, hygiene and sanitation conditions in the school for 115 students. An outside tap was also installed, which the school will use to water maize and other crops that are being grown on land nearby.

To support inclusive education for 115 children with disabilities, Hands Around the World provided essential classroom furniture to Irindiro Special School in Meru County, Kenya. This included 8 specially designed horseshoe tables, 40 pupil chairs, 2 teacher desks and chairs, and 2 writing boards. These additions have transformed the learning environment—improving comfort, boosting engagement, and making classrooms more accessible.

The horseshoe tables are especially valuable for pupils with hearing impairments, allowing a clear line of sight to the teacher and classmates to support effective learning and communication.

A locally made kitchen preparation table was also supplied, enabling the school to prepare and serve nutritious meals each day. Shared mealtimes have helped strengthen the school community and foster a more inclusive, supportive atmosphere.