The Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Kenya hosted the 5th Edition of the Great Places to School (GPTS) Awards Gala at the Panari Hotel, Nairobi, under the theme “Fostering Character and Holistic Education Fit for Africa’s Future.” The event brought together educators, policymakers, and champions of education to celebrate schools that exemplify innovation, character development, and holistic learning environments.
In his keynote address, Mr. Daniel Juma, Africa Regional Representative and Kenya Country Director for GPF, emphasized the transformative power of education in building a prosperous and ethical future for Kenya and Africa. “Tonight, we celebrate schools that are not just centers of learning but hubs of excellence, nurturing students who are academically proficient, morally grounded, and ready to lead,” Juma stated.
The event which brought together partners such as Ministry of Education, Kenya Private Schools Association, Oracle Academy, Sunrise Virtual School, DIB Bank Kenya Limited, UNICAF Kenya, CAVU, Opinion Track Ltd, and Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa recognized schools which offer exceptional learning environment. Out of the 250 schools that applied, 48 schools were awarded in the various categories namely; Equity and Inclusion, Global Competence, Technology and digital skills, Extra-Curriculum activities, Career Development & workforce readiness, Climate Action, Scholarship& Corporate Social Responsibility, Moral & Innovative School leadership, Values, Character and Peacebuilding, and School Safety, health and sanitation.
Since it’s inception in 2019, GPTS continues to set a high standard for education by assessing school cultures and aligning them with the demands of a rapidly evolving world. The 2025 Gala, highlighted schools that embody the principles outlined in GPF’s latest publication, Blueprint for Transforming Education: A Pathway to National Transformation.
The Blueprint offers 10 practical strategies to reimagine education, focusing on character development, innovative leadership, family and community engagement, ethical use of AI and technology, and systems innovation.
The Gala featured inspiring keynote speakers, including Ms. Victoria Muokah, TSC Regional Director of Education; Ms. Lorna Juma, Oracle Academy Program Manager, Africa; Eng. Charles Ochome, National Chairman of the Kenya Private Schools Association; Eng. Ben Kairu, CEO of Sunrise Virtual School; Dr. Stephen Njoroge, Chairman of GPF Kenya’s Transforming Education Initiative; and Ms. Winnie Rachael, Country Manager, UNICAF Kenya.
The Global Peace Foundation Kenya extends heartfelt congratulations to all awardees and gratitude to partners, educators, and supporters who made the 2025 GPTS Awards Gala a resounding success.
