Empowering community development through education

Tata Chemicals Magadi runs an education programme aimed at addressing crucial educational challenges within the Magadi community in Kajiado county.

In addition to its support for primary education, the company has so far provided bursaries to over 1,000 students from Magadi Division and the county, enabling them to pursue secondary and university education by covering their entire tuition fees. It has also constructed the Magadi Soda School and the Brian Patterson Memorial School, both equipped with boarding facilities and resourced with specialised teachers in computer education.

Alongside these efforts, Tata Chemicals Magadi has facilitated access to clean water, provided desks, and contributed to teacher salaries. Furthermore, the company has supported government schools by enhancing their infrastructure and providing necessary resources upon request. Recently completed projects include installation of an electric fence at Olkiramatian Arid Zone Primary School, rebuilding a dormitory at Oldonyionyokie Girls School, and constructing a dormitory for girls at Magadi Secondary School.

The company works with the local community, Kajiado County Government, National Government, and various stakeholders towards improving the quality of education in the Magadi region.

Celebrating excellence in community education

Tata Chemicals Magadi’s education programme also recognises and rewards outstanding schools, educators, and students, selected through a competitive and equitable process with active involvement from company management and community leaders. Hence, on March 20, the company costed its 2024 Education Day, with the Indian High Commissioner to Kenya, Her Excellency Madam Namgya C. Khampa, gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest.

Madam Khampa emphasised the transformative power of education, urging students to seize opportunities provided by Tata Chemicals Magadi.

She highlighted the bilateral partnership between Kenya and India, and recognised Tata Chemicals Magadi's contributions to education and healthcare as crucial for the advancement of Magadi and Kajiado communities. Additionally, she underscored education's pivotal role in furthering development objectives within local communities, commending Tata Chemicals Magadi for its collaboration with the Kenyan community and commitment to fostering increased Indian investment in Kenya.

Chairman of the Education Committee, Dr Stephen Moiko, noted the company’s crucial role in education support to the community, particularly in light of the regions low number of students meeting the admission criteria for national schools and universities. He expressed concerns about the disproportionately low enrolment of girls in schools, further compounded by high dropout rates among them.

Company Managing Director Subodh Srivastav congratulated the students and teachers for their outstanding performance and commitment to transforming lives through knowledge and education. He expressed gratitude to the community for their support, acknowledging its integral role in the company's achievements.

Ms Teriano Saidimu, a member of the local community and currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Toronto, has first-hand experience in the transformative power of education. She acknowledges the obstacles girls encounter in accessing educational opportunities, and advocates for parents to provide equal opportunities for all children to attend school. Furthermore, she urges young girls to strive diligently and seize the available opportunities.

The event featured 85 award categories recognising outstanding students, schools, and educators for their exceptional contributions to learning and development. It is aimed at inspiring academic excellence and improvement.

Over 1,000 students, teachers, community leaders, and education officials from local and national levels attended the ceremony. Distinguished guests included the Vice-Chairman of the company, Dr Titus Naikuni, and the CEO and Managing Director, Subodh Srivastav.