In rural Kenya, children with disabilities often face an uphill battle. Poverty, lack of access to education, and limited resources prevent many from following their dreams. For Nasike Robai, a young deaf teenager from western Kenya, this seemed to be her fate too—until she found hope at a special school in Nairobi.
Today, Nasike is a fashion design student at the Karen Technical Training Institute for the Deaf, a place where deaf youth can build skills, confidence, and a future. Her journey shows how access to education and support can change a life—and inspire others to dream.
From a Remote Village to the Capital
Nasike was born more than 400 kilometers from Nairobi in a poor, rural part of Kenya. Her parents struggled just to enroll her in primary school. After completing it, Nasike wanted to continue her education. But being deaf, young, and poor made it nearly impossible. She spent several years out of school.
“I was young, handicapped, and didn’t know where to go,” she explained through a sign language interpreter.
Everything changed when she learned about a technical school for deaf students in Nairobi. With hope in her heart, she travelled to the capital and joined the Karen Institute in 2018.
Now, her eyes are on the future.
“I’m studying fashion design,” she said proudly. “One day, I want to open my own shop and sell clothes to trainers, students—and even celebrities.”
A New World Opens Up
The Karen Technical Training Institute for the Deaf was created by the Kenyan government in 1990. It started with space for just 160 students. Today, more than 840 deaf trainees attend the school—far more than it was built to handle.
To meet the growing demand, the African Development Bank provided a loan of $2.9 million through the Kenyan Ministry of Education. This money is being used to build new classrooms, dormitories, and purchase modern learning tools—especially assistive equipment for deaf students like Nasike.
Thanks to this support, the institute now trains students in:
- Fashion design
- Hairdressing and body therapy
- Food production and service management
- Sign language and communication
- Electrical and electronics
The new buildings include a modern complex for the Electrical and Electronics Department and two large student hostels. Construction began in July 2018 and is now almost finished.
According to the school’s principal, Tecla Chemobo, the improvements have made a big difference. “We can now admit 150 more trainees and offer better quality training.”
Why This Matters
Deaf youth in Kenya—and around the world—often face discrimination and exclusion. Without the right support, they can be left behind in education, employment, and society. The Karen Institute shows that inclusive education works.
Many graduates of the school now work in respected jobs. Employers appreciate their skills and dedication. New equipment and updated teaching methods help students like Nasike compete in the real world.
The $2.9 million support for the Karen Institute is part of a bigger $65 million project by the African Development Bank. This project helps 33 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Kenya—including four schools for students with special needs.
“Special needs youth have dreams too,” said Susan Achieng, the Bank’s project task manager. “We want to make sure they are not left behind. Their potential is huge. We must help them use it—for their own lives and for Kenya’s future.”
Tips for Young Deaf Learners Who Want to Succeed
- Believe in Yourself: Like Nasike, you may face challenges. But your dreams are valid. You are capable.
- Find the Right School: Look for training institutes that support deaf students and offer practical skills.
- Ask for Help: Talk to others in the deaf community or disability organizations for advice and guidance.
- Choose a Skill You Love: Whether fashion, electronics, or food service—find what excites you and follow it.
- Stay Focused: School may be hard, but the skills you gain will open doors in the future.
Conclusion: Dreams Are Possible—With Support and Opportunity
Nasike’s story is one of hope, determination, and transformation. A deaf girl from a poor village now dreams of becoming a successful fashion designer. Her journey shows that when young people with disabilities get the right education and support, they can achieve anything.
The Karen Institute is not just a school—it’s a lifeline. It gives deaf youth like Nasike the tools they need to build a better future. And with continued investment and awareness, many more can follow in her footsteps.
