In a heartwarming and educational experience, Grade 7 pupils from Kivulini School in Kiambu County recently embarked on a unique five-day academic trip to Kenya’s beautiful coastal region, leaving both the students and their families beaming with excitement. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity had the students boarding a luxurious plane and heading to Mombasa for an enriching adventure that blended both learning and fun.
The trip, which aimed to provide hands-on learning experiences beyond the four walls of the classroom, kicked off at the airport. The young scholars, dressed in matching tracksuits and armed with suitcases and backpacks, excitedly boarded the plane, their faces glowing with anticipation. As they ascended the stairs of the prestigious aircraft, the mood was jubilant, marking the start of a memorable journey that would open their eyes to new experiences.
Upon arrival in Mombasa, the group was treated to an itinerary filled with both educational and recreational activities, starting with a visit to the renowned Fort Jesus. This historic fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to Mombasa’s rich history and architectural prowess. As the pupils marveled at the towering walls of Fort Jesus, they were introduced to a rich narrative that detailed the fort’s significance, from its construction by the Portuguese in the late 16th century to its strategic role during the colonial period. The young learners were captivated by the historical insights, which provided a vivid lesson in Kenya’s coastal history.
But the trip wasn’t just about soaking in the past. The students also had a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Indian Ocean through an exhilarating Likoni Ferry ride. The ferry, which connects the island of Mombasa to the southern mainland, gave the pupils an unforgettable view of the ocean, with its expansive blue waters stretching as far as the eye could see. For many of these children, this was their first time witnessing the vastness of the ocean, and the ferry ride was nothing short of thrilling.
The school, Kivulini, was keen to emphasize that this journey was not only an opportunity for fun but also a pivotal educational experience. According to a statement shared on the school’s social media platforms, the trip was designed to foster a love for learning, build camaraderie among the students, and introduce them to new environments. “Our Grade 7 champions embarked on an unforgettable journey to Kenya’s coastal region. The trip provided a fantastic opportunity to experience learning beyond the classroom while having fun,” read part of the school’s post.
Throughout the trip, the pupils formed closer bonds with their classmates, as they explored various sites and shared in the excitement of traveling. The school described the trip as one that would create lasting memories and encourage the children to view learning in a broader context, where they can relate their classroom lessons to real-world experiences.
Back in Kiambu, the effort and dedication by Kivulini School to offer such an enriching experience did not go unnoticed. Parents, guardians, and netizens alike were full of praise for the school’s initiative. Social media was flooded with comments, many applauding the school for investing in its students’ academic and personal growth in such a meaningful way. One user, Adam Mwafrika, remarked, “Wow. The flight is a game-changer for the champions,” while Salome Njoroge added, “Nice way to motivate our kids.”
The decision to incorporate air travel into the academic trip was particularly commendable, adding an extra layer of excitement to the students’ learning experience. Many of the young pupils had never flown before, and the opportunity to take a flight not only enhanced the sense of adventure but also exposed them to new modes of travel, expanding their horizons even further.
As the trip came to a close, the Grade 7 students returned to Kiambu with countless stories to tell and lessons learned, eager to share their experiences with their friends and family. The memories made, whether standing in awe at Fort Jesus or feeling the wind on the Likoni Ferry, will undoubtedly remain with them for years to come.
Kivulini School’s dedication to providing unique learning experiences has truly set a high standard for academic trips, proving that education can be both informative and incredibly fun.
