NAIROBI, March 8 (Xinhua) -- Growing up in the Mathare slums of Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, 16-year-old Kessy Ann Anyango dreams of becoming a doctor, a goal she hopes to achieve through science education at a China-backed school.
Kessy is a student at MCEDO Beijing School, located just a few kilometers from the temporary structure her parents rent. She is convinced that academic excellence is the key to changing not only her life but also the future of her family.
While the slum environment poses significant challenges for many girls like Kessy, school provides a safe space where they can pursue their aspirations. With the support of the Chinese community, including programs such as the Chinese Ambassador Scholarship, students like Kessy are able to nurture their dreams with guidance from dedicated teachers.
"This year I am not worried about my school fees because I was awarded a scholarship that will cover my entire 2026 academic year," Kessy told Xinhua in a recent interview.
Keeping busy with school activities has helped Kessy excel academically, and she hopes to continue her studies through university and ultimately pursue a career in medicine.
"My favorite subject is biology, and I want to become a doctor because when I see a sick person, I sympathize with them and think, what if I become a doctor and offer treatment to this person?" she said.
As Kenya marked International Women's Day on Sunday under the theme "Give to Gain," MCEDO Beijing School Director Benedict Kiage praised the support of the Chinese government in helping build a brighter future for disadvantaged girls.
"The Chinese people coming, establishing the school, building the laboratory, and bringing textbooks is a major gain for the school because these resources are helping bridge the gap and continue improving the standard of education for the Mathare children," Kiage said.
The success stories of learners at MCEDO Beijing School are largely made possible by the laboratory, where students like Kessy conduct practical lessons in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
According to Kiage, the Chinese community's investment in school infrastructure aims to create a conducive environment for a competency-based curriculum. Since the school's establishment, the number of female students interested in STEM subjects has been rising, signaling a brighter future for the next generation of Kenyan women.
"In our school, girls should continue to stay focused, aim higher, and know that hard work brings success," Kiage said. ■
