As Africa and the global community transition into a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy, education systems are being challenged to prepare young people not only with academic knowledge, but with the skills, values, and mindset required to thrive in an increasingly complex world. In Kenya, this call is especially urgent, as many young learners continue to face limited access to practical digital skills, entrepreneurial exposure, and values-based leadership development.
In response to these realities, Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Kenya marked a significant milestone in its transforming education agenda with the graduation of 18 students from the LEAP HUBs program at Makini Schools. The moment represented more than the completion of a learning cycle; it signaled progress toward reimagining education as a driver of innovation, character formation, and long-term social impact.
Group photo from the LEAPHUBs graduation.
Traditional education models often struggle to nurture creativity, problem-solving, and real-world application of knowledge. LEAP HUBs was designed to bridge this gap by transforming schools into active centres of digital learning, entrepreneurship, and leadership development. Through hands-on instruction, project-based learning, a structured business development boot camp, and a one-month mentorship program, students are exposed to STEM, entrepreneurship, communication, and leadership skills that are increasingly essential in today’s economy.
At the core of the program is Global Peace Foundation’s belief that education must develop both competence and character. By integrating innovation with values-based leadership, LEAP HUBs equips young learners to become responsible problem-solvers and ethical changemakers within their schools, communities, and future workplaces.
“Education today must equip young people with both competence and character,” said Mr. Daniel Juma Omondi, GPF Kenya country director and Africa regional representative of the Global Peace Foundation. “LEAP HUBs is designed to inspire innovation while grounding students in strong values. This combination strengthens individuals, schools, and ultimately the nation.”
During the graduation ceremony, graduating students confidently pitched innovative business ideas, showcased projects reflecting critical thinking and creativity, and demonstrated mastery of foundational digital literacy and creative technology tools. Beyond technical skills, participants exhibited strengthened leadership, teamwork, and communication abilities, alongside increased confidence to pursue STEM and entrepreneurship pathways.
These outcomes align closely with Kenya’s national development priorities and the broader African vision of nurturing a competitive, empowered, and values-driven generation. By engaging learners at an early stage, LEAP HUBs contributes to building a pipeline of future leaders capable of co-creating solutions to social and economic challenges.
Makini Schools remains a key partner in advancing this vision, providing a supportive and dynamic environment where learners are encouraged to explore, innovate, and grow. GPF Kenya continues to reinforce this impact through sustained mentorship, capacity strengthening, and ongoing program monitoring to ensure long-term outcomes for students and schools. The graduation ceremony brought together educators, partners, parents, and GPF Kenya staff, reflecting the shared commitment required to transform education. Their collective presence highlighted the importance of collaboration in shaping learning systems that respond to the realities of the 21st century.
The Global Peace Foundation’s Transforming Education initiatives are shaping the next generation of ethical, innovative leaders.
Learn more about how GPF is transforming education around the world.
