Class 4“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11Class 4 has 22 students who are inquisitive, willing, and hard working in their studies. After attendance each morning, lessons begin at 8:00 am, end at 4:00 pm, and include breaks for meals, playtime, and other activities. The children are particularly fond of the food they receive at school. Another highlight is co-curricular activities, especially PE class when they get to walk through Mathare to a field where they can run and play without being constrained.

James K., a Class 4 student, is the second born of three siblings being raised by a single mother. James’ mother works at a local pub, and she often works late or does not come home at all. The children frequently do not eat an evening meal. James says he does not like it when people fight, which is common when people live too close to each other and have to share limited resources. He also does not like what drugs do to the people in his neighborhood. James says he would like to be a civil engineer when he grows up and to help those in need.James likes being at school and greatly appreciates the two meals he receives each day. He has a keen interest in his studies and enjoys playing football with his friends. He is grateful for the outside space at school because there is no space to play at home.

Mr. Robert Nyagah is the Class 4 teacher. He is new to Mawewa School, joining the staff in January 2016. He is a hardworking teacher who is creative and excels at teaching Kiswahili, the Swahili language. Also, he is a Swahili poet and author and has been published in the national Swahili newspaper, Taifa Leo. He has been using his talents to prepare the students for the Kenya Music Festival.