Kenya Airways (KQ), the national carrier, has presented a retired Kenya Airways aircraft to Mang’u High School. During the Wednesday event overseen by Kipchumba Murkomen, the Cabinet Secretary for Roads, Transport, and Public Works, the airline emphasized that this gesture would enhance the practical aspects of aviation education.
In a statement, KQ announced, “Today, we have gifted a Boeing 737-700 aircraft to Mang’u High School, aiming to enrich its aviation learning programs. This action underscores our commitment to supporting educational institutions and fostering the development of future aviators.”
Allan Kilavuka, the CEO of Kenya Airways, expressed confidence in the positive impact of this donation, believing it will help nurture students’ talents. He stated, “This contribution aligns with our dedication to nurturing talent and driving economic growth, not only in Kenya but also across the broader African continent. We eagerly anticipate witnessing the profound effect of this initiative on Mang’u High School.”
Murkomen praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to establish incubators for innovation and talent cultivation. He emphasized that it would equip students and young people with the practical, technical, and technological skills required in the job market.
“The growth of Kenya’s aviation sector is of utmost importance to this government due to its far-reaching benefits, including job creation, market expansion, facilitation of faster transportation of goods and people, boosting regional economies, and positioning the country as the aviation hub of Africa,” stated Murkomen.
He also underscored the value of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in advancing the government’s education and aviation reforms, emphasizing that such collaborations are vital in providing young individuals with access to essential resources and opportunities to build successful careers.
“The donation affirms KQ’s support for the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which focuses on emphasizing students’ interests in specific areas of study, harnessing their inherent talents, converting their passions into careers, and transforming abstract theories into practical concepts,” added Murkomen.
The handover event was attended by various dignitaries, including Kenya Airways Board Chair Michael Gichangi, Mang’u High School Board Chair Anthony Maina, and Chief Principal John Kuria.