In the sub-counties of Karungu and Gwassi, a child’s academic success begins long before they step into a classroom. Understanding that a supportive home environment is the backbone of educational achievement, WeWorld recently implemented a comprehensive Positive Parenting initiative tailored for caregivers across 19 targeted schools.

To ensure robust community engagement, the training sessions were hosted at local schools. This localized strategy proved highly effective and a large number of parents and caregivers participated in a shared space dedicated to learning, reflection, and personal growth.

Rather than focusing on traditional disciplinary methods, the program equipped participants with strategies to deal with the complexities of raising children. Parents and caregivers were taught how to stop using corporal punishment in favor of constructive, restorative guidance. Additionally, the training emphasized the importance of active listening and open communication as vital tools for strengthening family bonds.

One caregiver from Seka Primary School reflected on the profound change in their approach,.

  • “Before this training, I thought discipline meant punishment. Now I understand how to talk to my child and guide them. I can already see a difference at home and in school.”
    — Caregiver, Seka Primary

The impact of these sessions extends well beyond the immediate household, directly influencing students’ educational experience. When parents are involved, children experience a notable increase in emotional support, which translates into higher motivation to attend school. Furthermore, minimizing domestic stress contributes significantly to improved mental health, self-esteem and to strengthen family bonds, mitigating dropout rates, particularly for children identified as Most At Risk (MAR) learners.

By prioritizing caregiver education, WeWorld is actively constructing a more resilient foundation for long-term educational achievement in the region. 

This initiative is part of the Pamoja Tudumishe Elimu Project, a joint initiative between WeWorld, the Education Above All Foundation’s Educate A Child program, with support from the Qatar Fund for Development, and is focused on retaining at-risk children in quality primary education.