Context
Following the institutionalization of Free Primary Education in Kenya in 2004 and the subsequent increases in primary school enrolment, teachers have had difficulties coping with the large class sizes. In Elangata Wuas, it is not uncommon for a teacher to have over 100 pupils in class. Teachers feel overstretched and overburdened and can not give the personal attention students require.

Goals
Africa SOMA interns provide voluntary teaching services to local primary schools in the area in order to help students excel in their studies and assist local teachers. Voluntary teachers have the opportunity to connect and exchange with their students while learning more about educational structures and norms in Elangata Wuas.

Program
Africa SOMA interns commit to at least three days a week of school-based activities in one of the four local schools in the Elangata Wuas community.

Management
Local teaching staff who request interns take responsibility for designing a relevant set of activities, based on the qualifications of interns and the specific needs of the school. Africa SOMA provides pre-departure training on the Kenyan education system, the national curriculum, and on teaching techniques specific to the context of Elangata Wuas. Schools may also request interns for assistance with extra-curricular programming.

Financial Support
Interns are entirely self-funded. Africa SOMA supporters can contribute through the purchasing of teaching aids, such as reference books and exam books.

As part of pre-departure preparation, interns are required to conduct fundraising activities to raise money for local guides. Guides are young community members of Elangata Wuas who partner with volunteers for the duration of their placement. Guides assist teachers with translation, information on local context and networking. As a unit, guides and interns learn from each other sharing skills and perspectives to strengthen their projects.