Deaf schools in Eastern Kenya receive volleyball support

Deaf Outreach Program Director Gloria Njoki during the handing over of uniforms and other volleyball equippments at St Luke's school for the deaf at Embu County.

Through donation from the Deaf Outreach Program (DEAFOP). Three institutions – St Luke’s and Mary Magdalene Schools for the Deaf in Embu County and Machakos School for the Deaf in Machakos County – were equipped with volleyballs, uniforms, nets, knee caps and trained coaches.

The initiative seeks to use sports, particularly volleyball, as a tool for empowering learners with hearing impairments by fostering life skills, teamwork, and confidence.

Speaking during the handover event at St. Luke’s School for the Deaf in Mbeere South, DEAFOP founder and director Gloria Njoki emphasised the role of sport in holistic learner development.

“Sport is a powerful tool to promote student agency and performance, both in and outside the classroom. It helps learners navigate real-life situations through teamwork, strategy, and resilience,” said Njoki.

She noted that while the programme initially focused on digital learning content, it has since expanded to include sports as an additional medium to equip deaf students with essential social and emotional skills.

“Sports go beyond competition, they teach students how to collaborate, handle wins and losses, and develop critical thinking. These are skills that will serve them in school, in life, and in future workplaces,” Njoki added.

The programme, funded by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, aims to bridge the opportunity gap faced by deaf individuals. According to the 2019 Census, employment remains one of the greatest challenges for the deaf community, largely due to limited public awareness and inadequate workplace accommodations.

St. Luke’s Principal, Michael Nyaga, welcomed the programme, saying it aligns well with Kenya’s competency-based curriculum, which emphasizes talent development and physical education.

“This initiative supports physical activity as a potential career path, particularly for learners with physical ability but limited opportunities,” said Nyaga.

Globally, about 5.5 per cent of the population experiences hearing loss. In Kenya, this translates to approximately 2.7 million people, highlighting the urgent need for inclusive programs that support their development and integration.