Written by Alice Njoki.
On February 28, 2025, over 100 children from across Kenya gathered at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) for the Africa Children Summit (ACS) Kenya Pre-Summit. Organized by Mtoto News, this child-led event provided a platform for children to discuss key issues affecting their lives, which is education, inclusivity, climate change, and technology, all this while engaging policymakers in finding solutions.
Key Discussions and Insights
Empowering Children in Education
Children emphasized the importance of being active participants in their education rather than passive recipients.
They called for;
✅ Being involved in lesson planning and subject choices.
✅ Strengthening communication between learners and teachers.
✅ Creating a more supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Inclusive Education: A Right for All
Inclusivity in education was another major focus. Children highlighted the barriers faced by those with disabilities and marginalized communities, stressing that quality education is a right for all. They called for more accessible learning facilities, well-trained teachers, and a culture of appreciation and tolerance among students. Their concerns extended beyond school walls, as they pointed out how climate change disrupts education. Drought, malnutrition, and damaged infrastructure make it harder for children to stay in school, and they urged the government to provide food aid, invest in sustainable food storage, and implement reforestation programs to combat these challenges.
Why don’t we make school entirely free—no hidden costs—so education is truly accessible to all?– Sam Smith, President, Kenya Children Assembly.
Technology & AI in Learning
The role of technology in education sparked mixed reactions. While children recognized its benefits in enhancing learning, they also raised concerns about privacy risks and screen addiction. They advocated for responsible AI development that prioritizes children’s rights and ensures technology remains a tool for empowerment rather than harm. The conversation also touched on school safety, with children emphasizing the urgent need to address physical and mental abuse in learning spaces. They proposed peace rooms for stress relief and the establishment of guidance counseling clubs to create safer environments for all students.
Addressing School Violence
Children called for safer learning spaces and proposed:
Establishing peace rooms for stress relief and setting up guidance counseling clubs in schools.
BY CHILDREN, FOR CHILDREN AND WITH CHILDREN
In a democratic election, children selected representatives who will present their recommendations at the Africa Children Summit in South Africa this April.
Action, Not Just Words
children must not only be heard but actively involved in shaping decisions that affect them. The government must move beyond just listening and take concrete action to implement these recommendations. Proper funding and commitment can expand these summits to include children from every county in Kenya and even across Africa, ensuring a more inclusive and representative dialogue.
Creating a future where children are not just recipients of policies but active contributors to their own development requires a shift in mindset. It’s time for decision-makers to go beyond acknowledging children’s voices and start turning their ideas into real, impactful change.