KCSE Top Performers, Global Innovators – How Nova Pioneer Is Redefining Education in Kenya

When Kon Lual Ajok and Ian Mwadiloh sat for their KCSE examinations as part of Nova Pioneer’s Class of 2025, they were not just preparing to pass exams. They were also building a solution to a real-world governance challenge, one that has now placed them on the global stage. The

When Kon Lual Ajok and Ian Mwadiloh sat for their KCSE examinations as part of Nova Pioneer’s Class of 2025, they were not just preparing to pass exams. They were also building a solution to a real-world governance challenge, one that has now placed them on the global stage.

The two alumni from Nova Pioneer Eldoret Boys Campus emerged as the overall winners of the Young Scientist Kenya 2025 competition, beating teams from across the country with their innovation, Afronomy Chain. Both students scored A- in KCSE, demonstrating that academic excellence and innovation can go hand in hand.

This January, Kon and Ian represented Kenya in Ireland at the Stripe Young Scientists & Technology Exhibition, marking a major international milestone for the young men.

 

Innovation Born in the Classroom

Afronomy Chain is a blockchain-powered government services platform designed to ensure transparency, immutable records, and public accountability for public transactions. What makes the project remarkable is not just its technical sophistication but where it began.

The idea was developed during Nova Pioneer’s Innovation and Leadership programme, which is deliberately integrated into both the Competency-Based Education (CBE) and Cambridge curricula offered by the school.

“At Nova Pioneer, innovation is not an extracurricular activity, it is part of how learning happens. Students apply what they are learning in class to real problems facing society,” said Dr. London Moore, Nova Pioneer’s Senior Director of Schools..

Through structured innovation sprints, design thinking, and leadership coaching, students are guided to connect core curriculum content such as mathematics, sciences, humanities, and digital literacy with real-world application.

 

Bridging CBE, Cambridge, and Real-World Skills

Nova Pioneer intentionally runs both CBE and Cambridge pathways, while maintaining a unified philosophy: education must prepare students for a world that does not yet exist.

Rather than treating special programmes as add-ons, the school integrates them into core learning.

“Whether a student is on the CBE or Cambridge pathway, they go through the same innovation and leadership experiences. This ensures that all students develop problem-solving, ethical leadership, and global citizenship alongside academic mastery,” explained Hillary Tum, Principal at Nova Pioneer’s Eldoret Boys Campus. 

For Kon and Ian, this approach made all the difference.

“We were encouraged to think beyond grades and ask, ‘What problem are we solving? Afronomy Chain came from that mindset; using what we learn in school to create impact,”  said Kon Lual Ajok.

“The Innovation and Leadership classes helped us turn an idea into something practical. We learned how to research, test, refine, and present our solution confidently,” Ian Mwadiloh added.

 

Beyond Exam: Preparing Global Citizens

While many schools focus almost exclusively on exam outcomes, Nova Pioneer deliberately invests in additional programmes that prepare students for leadership, entrepreneurship, and global relevance.

The success of Kon and Ian illustrates the power of this model. Their KCSE results reflect academic rigour, while their international recognition highlights skills that traditional schooling alone rarely produces; critical thinking, collaboration, and solution-driven leadership.

“Academic excellence is important, but it is not enough on its own. Our goal is to develop students who can apply knowledge, lead with integrity, and compete globally,” said Andrew Meraba, Principal at Nova Pioneer’s Tatu City Boys campus.

 

Setting a New Standard for Education in Kenya

Kon Lual Ajok and Ian Mwadiloh’s journey reflects a broader shift in what education can and should be.

Nova Pioneer’s integrated approach that combines strong academics, innovation, and leadership development across both CBE and Cambridge pathways is redefining what it means to prepare students for the future.

To learn more about the opportunities available to our students, click here to sign up for our Open Day.

 

Nova Pioneer and DEG Impulse Announce Partnership to Drive Africa’s Growth

  Nova Pioneer, in collaboration with DEG Impulse and the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development, is proud to announce a transformative partnership to launch the Post School Success Digital Platform (PSSP). This groundbreaking initiative is designed to reshape how young people across Africa prepare for their futures; bridging

 

Nova Pioneer Co-founder and CEO, Chinezi Chijioke, in Germany at the signing of a landmark partnership with DEG Impulse and the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development to launch the Post School Success Platform.

Nova Pioneer, in collaboration with DEG Impulse and the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development, is proud to announce a transformative partnership to launch the Post School Success Digital Platform (PSSP). This groundbreaking initiative is designed to reshape how young people across Africa prepare for their futures; bridging the gap from secondary school, through tertiary study, and into meaningful employment or entrepreneurship.

A New Era of Post-School Success

The PSSP builds on Nova Pioneer’s well-established Post School Success (PSS) programme, which has empowered students for over a decade. The new PSSP partnership builds upon the current programme by launching three powerful innovations:

  • An AI-powered digital cockpit and coach to empower students to plan, prepare for and successfully navigate their post-secondary paths
  • Online learning courses designed to equip students to thrive in life beyond secondary school
  • A suite of in-person programmes, to connect students and recent graduates with preparation, peers and opportunities 

“This partnership advances our mission by enabling us to amplify the reach of our Post School Success programmes 1,000x over time! It also provides a means through which we can provide multi-faceted and continued support for our own students and alumni, supporting their journeys through tertiary study, into first employment or entrepreneurship, and even beyond,” said Chinezi Chijioke, Nova Pioneer Co-Founder and CEO, at the partnership signing.

Expanding Access and Impact

With a community of over 6,000 students across Kenya and South Africa, Nova Pioneer is committed to reaching even more learners. Over the next three years, more than 15,000 secondary school students and graduates will benefit from access to the PSSP tool, resources, and programmes.

For the past 11 years, Nova Pioneer’s Innovation & Leadership and Post School Success programmes have equipped students to solve real-world problems, develop entrepreneurial solutions, and lead with purpose. These efforts have opened doors to scholarships and placements at over 100 leading universities worldwide, including in the USA, Canada, France, Germany, Australia, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa. Collectively, graduates have secured millions of dollars in scholarships to pursue their dreams.

A Shared Vision for Africa’s Future

This new partnership with DEG Impulse and the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development reflects a powerful truth: when Africa’s innovators collaborate with global institutions, the impact multiplies. By combining technology, networks, and shared vision, young Africans can step confidently into their futures—equipped not just with knowledge, but with the courage, skills, and connections to lead.

The Nova Pioneer–DEG Impulse partnership is more than an investment in education. It’s an investment in Africa’s future.

 

Connections: The Nova Pioneer Way

At Nova Pioneer, we believe in the 3Cs that shape tomorrow’s African leaders: Character, Capabilities, and Connections. This August, our Tatu City Girls ticked off the third in style at the Nova Pioneer IEC Malaysia Camp. For 10 unforgettable days, they explored vibrant cities, top universities, and cultures that stretched

At Nova Pioneer, we believe in the 3Cs that shape tomorrow’s African leaders: Character, Capabilities, and Connections. This August, our Tatu City Girls ticked off the third in style at the Nova Pioneer IEC Malaysia Camp. For 10 unforgettable days, they explored vibrant cities, top universities, and cultures that stretched their horizons.

Nova Pioneer IEC Camp students arrive in Malaysia

From Putrajaya to Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Genting Highlands, and even Singapore, our students discovered what it means to be globally ready.

They didn’t just sit in classrooms—they engaged in robotics workshops, stepped into medical simulation labs, cracked marketing challenges, and tested their skills in engineering. Every activity gave them hands-on exposure to courses that connect directly to their passions.

UNIVERSITY VISITS

Nova Pioneer IEC Malaysia Camp students visit University of Cyberjaya

University of Cyberjaya

Located in the city’s IT district, this university impressed our learners with its strong commitment to sustainability and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The focus on medical studies gave them valuable insights into healthcare education.

Students explored advanced simulation labs for medicine and nursing, which sparked interest among those considering careers in healthcare. They also had the rare opportunity to view plastinated human bones and cadavers used in practical training—an eye-opening glimpse into real medical practice.

Xiamen University

Xiamen University stood out for its size, facilities, and international orientation. With its own hotel, the country’s largest research library, and a spacious campus, it offered students a sense of scale and infrastructure found in world-class institutions.

Heriot-Watt University

Here, learners took part in a fun robotics challenge. Working in teams, they built robots from small parts and manuals, then put them to the test in a balloon-bursting competition. The activity encouraged teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving. Each student proudly received a certificate to mark their achievement.

Nova Pioneer IEC Malaysia Camp students visit INTI International University

INTI International University

INTI showcased its strong focus on engineering and technology. The campus featured cutting-edge facilities such as 3D printers and solar-powered energy systems, reflecting its commitment to the SDGs.

Students also completed a personality assessment designed to match courses with their strengths and interests. The activity gave them personal insights into future study paths. At the end, they each received a certificate of participation.

Nova Pioneer students robotics workshop IEC Malaysia Camp

University of Wollongong Malaysia

The visit began with a tour of outstanding facilities in culinary arts and engineering. Afterwards, students joined an interactive workshop where they coded and programmed robotic cars to race along a runway.  The event ended in a friendly competition, with winners taking home awards. It was an exciting way to experience STEM in action.

Sunway University

At Sunway, students explored a wide range of courses, from Business and Communication to Data Science, Hospitality & Culinary, Mathematical Sciences, and Life Sciences.

To make learning practical, the university hosted an activity on social media marketing. Learners examined how brands reach consumers using “push” and “pull” strategies. This exercise highlighted both the opportunities and challenges businesses face in gaining market visibility, especially with limited resources.

Nova Pioneer IEC Malaysia Camp students visit Taylor's University

Taylor’s University

Taylor’s is globally recognised for excellence in Culinary Arts. During the visit, students also saw engineering learners at work, using carpentry and design skills to build a boat for an upcoming competition. This highlighted the diversity of skills available at the institution—from kitchens to workshops—and inspired our students with its blend of creativity and technical expertise.

University of Asia Pacific

As Malaysia’s official technology training hub, this university encouraged students to reflect on their daily interests as a way to guide career decisions. The engaging activities gave learners a new perspective on how passions can shape future pathways.

The campus tour added further insights, showing how the institution integrates technology and psychology to prepare graduates for the modern world.

CULTURAL IMMERSION

The Nova Pioneer IEC Malaysia Camp was not only about academics. Students immersed themselves in culture by visiting George Town’s UNESCO heritage sites, temples, and diverse food markets. They also marveled at iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and the dazzling Marina Bay Sands light show.

Nova Pioneer students cultural immersion Nova Pioneer students cultural immersion in Malaysia

ADVENTURE & FUN

Nova Pioneer students' adventure activities Nova Pioneer students' adventure activities

Learning blended seamlessly with adventure. Students raced go-karts at the Sepang Circuit, enjoyed water rides at Sunway Lagoon, went bowling, and soared above Genting Highlands in a cable car. In Singapore, they even stepped into the excitement of the Jurassic World Experience. 

This journey blended academics, culture, and adventure. More importantly, it equipped our students with global awareness, confidence, and inspiration as they prepare for their post-high school journeys.

At Nova Pioneer, we don’t just imagine the future—we empower our students to build it with the tools, experiences, and opportunities that matter.

To learn more about the opportunities available to our students, click here to sign up for our Open Day.

How to Prepare Your Child for CBE Senior School Pathway Selection

As your child approaches the transition into Senior School, you may find yourself asking: “How do I prepare my child to select a pathway aligned to their passion and strengths?” It starts with intentional support, thoughtful pathway selection, and a mindset shift from grades to growth. At Nova Pioneer, we

As your child approaches the transition into Senior School, you may find yourself asking:
“How do I prepare my child to select a pathway aligned to their passion and strengths?”

It starts with intentional support, thoughtful pathway selection, and a mindset shift from grades to growth.

At Nova Pioneer, we walk alongside families as they make this exciting leap. Here’s how you can prepare your child for a smooth and meaningful start to their CBE Senior School journey.

 

1. Understand What CBE Senior School Is Really About

Unlike the traditional 8-4-4 system, CBE is designed to:

  • Equip learners with skills and competencies, not just content
  • Emphasize values, collaboration, and real-world application
  • Allow students to pursue pathways that match their passions and strengths

In short, CBE is not just about what students learn, but how they learn, and why.

Tip for Parents: Shift conversations from “What grade did you get?” to “What did you create? What problem did you solve?”

 

2. Choose the Right Pathway: Passion + Strength = Purpose

CBE Senior School offers three key academic pathways:

  • STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics
  • Social Sciences 
  • Arts & Sports Science

The best pathway for your child is one that aligns with:

  • What they are curious about
  • What they naturally excel in
  • What kind of impact they want to have

At Nova Pioneer, we help families reflect on learner profiles and long-term goals before making a pathway decision. No pressure, just guided choice through data from their academic performance and our student strength discovery tool/survey.

 

3. Build Soft Skills Early

CBE Senior School emphasizes skills like:

  • Critical thinking
  • Communication
  • Collaboration
  • Leadership
  • Digital literacy

You can nurture these at home by encouraging:

  • Journaling and reflection
  • Group problem-solving (even with siblings!)
  • Participation in youth clubs, coding camps, or debate forums
  • Open discussions on current events

4. Encourage Ownership and Independence

Students in Senior School are expected to take more responsibility for their learning. This includes:

  • Setting academic and personal goals
  • Managing their time and assignments
  • Choosing elective subjects and passion projects

Tip for Parents: Support your child to take initiative and ask them to lead family plans (like planning a meal) to build confidence.

 

5. Choose a School That Nurtures More Than Grades

Look for a school that blends academics with:

  • Real-world exposure (internships, service learning)
  • Student leadership opportunities
  • Project-based learning
  • Mentorship and university prep

At Nova Pioneer, we integrate our Innovation and Leadership Programme into every student’s journey, no matter their pathway. We also have a robust Post School Success Programme providing students with personalised guidance on exploring post-secondary options. The programme also provides support & encouragement, Internships & job shadows, Student Exchange Programme.

 Our programmes ensure that our students leave school with more than a certificate; they leave with clarity, skills, and purpose.

Final Word: It’s Not Just a System Change – It’s a Mindset Shift!

Preparing your child for CBE Senior School means helping them see learning as a tool to shape their future, not just a race to pass exams.

Choose a pathway that excites them. Support their strengths. And trust that with the right environment, they will not only succeed, they will thrive.

Explore Nova Pioneer’s Senior School CBE Pathways across our Athi River, Eldoret and Tatu City campuses.

Applications for 2026 are now open. Apply Now! Help your child start strong.

Nova Pioneer & Strathmore University Partner to Advance AI Education in Africa

Nova Pioneer and Strathmore University have entered a groundbreaking partnership to champion the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education across Africa.  The partnership aims to develop a comprehensive AI curriculum for students in grades K-12, with a particular focus on grades 7-12 within Nova Pioneer’s existing Innovation and Leadership

Nova Pioneer and Strathmore University have entered a groundbreaking partnership to champion the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education across Africa. 

The partnership aims to develop a comprehensive AI curriculum for students in grades K-12, with a particular focus on grades 7-12 within Nova Pioneer’s existing Innovation and Leadership Programme. The launch of the pilot programme will commence in 2025 for all Grade 8 students at Nova Pioneer.

Speaking during the signing of the agreement, Mr. Chinezi Chijioke, Nova Pioneer’s Co-founder and CEO, described the partnership as one that would equip African youth with the skills and knowledge essential for thriving in an AI-driven future.

From left to right – Cavin Opiyo – Grant Manager, Office of the Associate Dean, Research and Innovation, Strathmore University Business School, Chinezi Chijioke – Co-founder & CEO, Nova Pioneer, Dr. London Moore – Senior Director of Schools, Nova Pioneer, Rosemary Okello-Orlale – Director of Africa Media Hub at Strathmore University Business School

Nova Pioneer’s Senior Director of Schools, Dr. London Moore, added, “Over the course of the next 5 years, we are looking forward to partnering with Strathmore University to create AI Impact Camps and an African Innovation Fund that will enable students across Africa to take their ideas and meaningfully bring them to life.” 

Nova Pioneer’s Innovation and Leadership Programme enables Grade 7 to Form 4 students to hone in on character, and reflect deeply on their values and beliefs. They then develop skills that will help them solve real-world problems through the frameworks of innovation, social entrepreneurship, and leadership.

The collaboration between Nova Pioneer and Strathmore University will see the delivery of the K-12 AI curriculum in Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Uganda, Nigeria, and other African countries. This effort represents a significant step towards preparing the next generation of African leaders to harness the potential of AI and drive future innovation and growth on the continent. 

 

Nova Pioneer Ranked Among Top 10 World’s Best Schools in Innovation Category

Nova Pioneer has been recognized as one of the top 10 schools globally in the field of education innovation, securing its place among the world’s educational elite. This prestigious acknowledgment underscores Nova Pioneer’s commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and excellence in education. The recognition of Nova Pioneer’s outstanding contributions to

Nova Pioneer has been recognized as one of the top 10 schools globally in the field of education innovation, securing its place among the world’s educational elite. This prestigious acknowledgment underscores Nova Pioneer’s commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and excellence in education.

The recognition of Nova Pioneer’s outstanding contributions to advancing educational practices and pioneering new approaches to learning demonstrates its dedication to preparing students for success in an ever-evolving world.

Nova Pioneer stands out for its innovative curriculum, dynamic teaching methods, and commitment to leveraging technology to enhance learning experiences. Through project-based learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world applications, the school equips students with the skills and mindset necessary to thrive in the 21st century.

In addition to its innovative programs, Nova Pioneer fosters a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and community engagement. By partnering with local organizations, industry leaders, and educational institutions through its post school success programme, the school provides students with opportunities to apply their skills in real-world settings and make a positive impact on society.

As Nova Pioneer celebrates this prestigious accolade, it reaffirms its commitment to innovation, excellence, and continuous improvement in education. By embracing change, embracing challenges, and embracing opportunities, Nova Pioneer remains at the forefront of educational innovation, preparing students to excel in a rapidly changing world.

While being among the top 10 schools in the innovation category is a tremendous honor, our journey does not end here. We have set our sights on winning The Community Choice Award. This award is open to 50 shortlisted schools and awarded to the school that receives the most votes in the Public Vote. Only one school will be awarded the Community Choice Award and to achieve this goal, we need your support!

Please cast your vote for Nova Pioneer by following the instructions provided below.

  1. Head to  https://vote.worldsbestschool.org/
  2. Select Nova Pioneer
  3. Register to vote
  4. Validate your vote via email

Additionally, we encourage you to share this wonderful news with your friends, family, and networks, and ask them to vote for us as well. Together, we can make a difference and showcase the excellence of Nova Pioneer on a global stage.

Please note that public voting will close on June 28th, 2024

If you are not part of the Nova Pioneer community yet and are interested in learning more about our innovative approach to delivering our unique learning model, please sign up here to visit us at our next open day.

Innovation & Leadership at Nova Pioneer

What makes a student project authentic and meaningful? How can we better prepare our students for real-world tasks through project-based learning? This year in our Innovation and Leadership programme, we’ve focused heavily on levelling up our projects, so that students engage in projects with a public audience and an authentic

What makes a student project authentic and meaningful? How can we better prepare our students for real-world tasks through project-based learning? This year in our Innovation and Leadership programme, we’ve focused heavily on levelling up our projects, so that students engage in projects with a public audience and an authentic task.  This led us to two culminating events – our Nova Talks event and our Social Entrepreneurship Shark Tank.

The main highlight of the year was our first annual Nova Talks event, held on 23 June 2023 in USIU auditorium. This event brought the top two speakers from each of our Nova Pioneer Kenya high schools to share their Talk on the theme, “Impacting the African Century”. Form 4 students across our high schools were challenged to write and deliver a talk on how they’ve made a positive impact on the world during their time at Nova Pioneer. Lessons for Term 1 Innovation and Leadership focused on best practices in delivering a talk, and each student gave a talk in their Innovation and Leadership class. Students then selected the top talks from their classroom to go on to speak in front of the school, and then the students selected the top two talks to represent their school at the final showcase event.

The event, which brought together students and families from across all six Nova Pioneer schools in Kenya, featured MC Elijah Odundo and judges Chinezi Chijioke, Dr. London Moore, Agatha Juma and Mary Onguko. Miss Mureithi and Miss Waiharo of Nova Pioneer Tatu Girls gave the best speech overall, sharing their idea for  “Plastikey,” a business aimed at reducing plastic waste by repurposing waste materials into urban farming materials. Their speech was supported by concrete examples of their ideas brought to life. Miss Maina and Miss Nzou, also of Tatu Girls, emerged as the most compelling speakers, sharing their business idea for “THREAL: An African Heritage Story,” providing an online platform for young Africans to connect with one another and learn about their heritage, correcting flawed global narratives on the African experience. Their presentation included movement and music, capturing the audience’s attention as they shared their message. Finally, Master Mukisa of Eldoret Boys earned the award for most compelling concept through his talk titled “UKUAJI: Fostering Joint Economic Growth Through Diversity and Inclusion”, which provided innovative solutions for revitalising rural communities and fostering community engagement and pride.

Later in the term, Tatu Boys hosted Nova Pioneer’s second annual Social Entrepreneurship Shark Tank event on 7 August, 2023. Over the course of Term 2, Form 3 students across all four high schools learned about social entrepreneurship, building business and impact models for their own social enterprise idea. The top team from each school went on to the final Shark Tank event, in which they delivered their social enterprise pitch live to a team of “Sharks” – Kenyan business and non-profit leaders. The 2023 “Sharks” included Catherine Kiama, Director of Programmes and Impact at She’s the First, Jedidah Ndubi, Senior Investment Associate at Acumen Fund, Linnet Muturi, Educational Counsellor at Uniconnect Ltd., and Hilda Nyareso, Chief Operating Officer at Shamiri Institute. After each pitch, the Sharks gave their live feedback to each team, and offered their total mock investment for each team.

Tatu Boys team “NIXIE AI”, which included Master Munene, Master Richard, Master Wangai, and Master Mbowe, won the event with a total of Ksh.12,700,000 across the four judges. Their innovative idea focused on AI-supported mental healthcare for young people. This was the second year running in which a team from Tatu Boys won the event, as the Tatu Boys team “TuLink” won the competition in 2022.

Looking ahead to 2024, we are excited to further build on our Innovation and Leadership programming. We will be launching our Grade 8 Innovation and Leadership curriculum next year, focusing on Failing Forward, which all Grade 8 students will take alongside their regular lessons. We will also launch an Artificial Intelligence unit in the Innovation and Leadership curriculum in 2024, helping students to understand the role AI will play in our changing world, as well as the technical aspects of artificial intelligence.

Innovation and Leadership remains a top priority for Nova Pioneer in the years to come, and we cannot wait for you to see what we have in store next!

 

Alumni Summit

At Nova Pioneer, we know that the best marker of our success as a school group is the success of our alumni. We currently have 1169 alumni and counting, with 349 more joining as the school year closes at the end of this year. Investing in our alumni programming is

At Nova Pioneer, we know that the best marker of our success as a school group is the success of our alumni. We currently have 1169 alumni and counting, with 349 more joining as the school year closes at the end of this year. Investing in our alumni programming is a top priority for Nova Pioneer as our graduates transition from high school to their academic and professional lives, and one way we have invested in our alumni is through our annual Alumni Summit.

The purpose of our Alumni Summit is to provide a platform for our alumni to create and strengthen meaningful connections with one another, learn from field experts across the Continent and to engage in personal and professional connections to serve them in their futures.Throughout the day, alumni have the opportunity to hear from African leaders about their growth journeys, engage with leaders in small-groups through Master Classes, hear from other alumni through the Alumni Panel, and connect with fellow alumni through breakout “Speed Dating” sessions and a school-specific global impact planning session.

On Saturday, 22 July, 2023, Nova Pioneer held its second annual Alumni Summit, bringing together over 150 former students, current teammates, and guest speakers under the theme, “Reunite, reconnect, reimagine, reignite”.  Alumni of Nova Pioneer Ormonde, Tatu Boys, and Tatu Girls gathered virtually and in-person on campus to mark the day. 

This year’s Alumni Summit was hosted by Michelle Bochaberi (NPTG 2021), Sinovuyo Titi (NPO 2022), and Brandon Chisika (NPTB 2020), and opened with speaker Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy, Managing Director of Spotify – Africa. In a conversation moderated by 2019 NPO alumnus Jabu Mtwa, Ms. Muhutu-Remy spoke about her journey into leadership, and encouraged the group with her message that we each move at our own pace and some find their “big role” later in life.

After Ms. Muhutu-Remy’s opening speech, alumni had the opportunity to attend a small-group Master class led by an industry leader on the Continent. Master class facilitators included Dr. Stephanie Chesire of Signature Smile Dentistry, Gentamu McKinney, author of Keep Calm and Bring Your Carry-On, Elvis Maneno of Mobius Motors, Catherine Kiama of She’s The First, Lina Gichure of Roamtech Solutions Ltd., Mbuki Kasema of Wowana Ltd., Mthokozisi Madonda of NBA Africa, Likeleli Monyamane of Standard Bank Group, Stephen Wanyingo of Wezesha, Mary Onguko of Avanti Communications Group, Weldon Siele of Kecher Africa, and William Yakah of Wavy Ventures. In these tight-knit sessions, alumni were able to learn from a field expert about their professional journey and ask questions of the expert. 

Next, alumni headed into their school breakout rooms to plan an Alumni Reconnect Day – a chance for alumni to head back to their alma maters to lead in a Humanities and STEM competition and provide mentorship to current students. This was followed by an update on ways for alumni to stay involved with Nova Pioneer heading into 2024, including joining our alumni committee, becoming an alumni mentor, participating in an alumni speaker series, coordinating a service project, volunteering and a Nova Pioneer Open Day, applying for professional development opportunities, and nominating a fellow alumnus for the Nova Pioneer Alumni Culture Awards.

The summit closed with speaker William Kamkwamba, inventor and author of The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind. Mr. Kamkwamba shared his childhood story of problem-solving for his community in rural Malawi by building an electricity-generating windmill, and how that eventually led him to where he is today, heading the Moving Windmills Project.  In a question and answer session facilitated by 2022 NPTG alumnus Hazel Ochieng, William spoke about how he has become a stronger public speaker and communicator as a young adult, who inspired him (his grandmother, who taught him that you can solve your own problems), and his greatest fear (failure – but this is also what keeps him going).

Coming out of the conversation with William Kamkwamba, several alumni shared their interest in William’s Moving Windmills project – particularly his forthcoming Moving Windmills Innovation Centre, a centre aimed at growing African innovators and supporting their ideas to solve problems in their communities. Our Post-School Success team is currently exploring opportunities for our alumni to be involved in this exciting work, as well as other exciting opportunities to further partner with some of our Master Class speakers for future initiatives.

We sincerely hope that our alumni engagement does not end with the summit, and encourage our alumni to keep in touch and let us know how they would like to stay connected! Interested alumni are encouraged to fill out this form to register their interest.

Once a Novaneer, always a Novaneer!

 

Nova Pioneer Graduates Taking Over The World

Nova Pioneer provides students with opportunities beyond the classroom to nurture their talents and abilities.  We recently partnered with The True Talents of Africa Football Academy to offer professional football within our schools. The program provides students with different opportunities  such as soccer scholarships. This year, we are extremely proud

Nova Pioneer provides students with opportunities beyond the classroom to nurture their talents and abilities.  We recently partnered with The True Talents of Africa Football Academy to offer professional football within our schools. The program provides students with different opportunities  such as soccer scholarships.

This year, we are extremely proud of Peter Kolenyo from the Tatu Boys Class of 2021 who just committed to join Cardinal Stritch University on a 67% soccer scholarship. 

Peter is a graduate of the True Talents of Africa Football Academy residential program at Nova Pioneer Boys where he excelled not only on the field but also off the field, scoring an A-in his KCSE Exam.

Above,Peter( Nova Pioneer TTA goal keeper) during a recent match

Peter made the decision after receiving various offers from several universities including Amherst University, Manor college, Irvine Valley, Whatcom University and others.

Cardinal Stritch is one of the most consistent NAIA(National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) Men’s soccer programs in the United States having qualified in the NAIA National Tournaments in 4 out of the past  6 years. 

We are extremely proud of him and we wish him well in his journey! He is set to travel to the US in August and is currently training with the TTA Football Academy’s Under 21 team. He  joins the list of Nova Pioneer TTA Graduates headed to the US this August on Soccer scholarships which includes Cedric Mucui, Kennedy Obanda and Derrick Onyango.

To learn more about the True Talents of Africa programme within Nova Pioneer, click on the video below.

Commemorating The Safer Internet Day.

Safer Internet day is celebrated on 8th Feb, of every year. Safer Internet day aims to create both a safer and better internet where everyone is empowered to use technology responsibly, respectfully, critically and creatively.  This year, our students learnt about the importance of being kind to their eye by

Safer Internet day is celebrated on 8th Feb, of every year. Safer Internet day aims to create both a safer and better internet where everyone is empowered to use technology responsibly, respectfully, critically and creatively. 

This year, our students learnt about the importance of being kind to their eye by checking their screen time usage, what they watch and online safety.

The students were surprised by the World Health Organization recommended hours of screen time per day for children.  They argued that the time was too short and that they are usually on screens for  longer periods of time. They were encouraged to take breaks and to reduce time spent on screens so as to protect their eyes and brains.

The students were also reminded about online safety which included being aware of online predators, not giving out personal information, staying away from inappropriate content among other risks

It was evident from the discussions that there is minimal supervision of what the students are accessing online and on television and we would like to request the parents to ensure that the children are accessing safe content.

Would you like to join the Nova Pioneer community? Our enrollment deadline is fast approaching. Click on this link to apply