Highlands College raises money for Kenyan school kitchen

Highlands College is partnering with the Kenyan school, Malindi Bright Futures Academy (MBFA), to improve the lives of young people in the region.

The non-profit school is supported by the Jersey charity Friends of MBFA, but now faces challenges due to an increasing cohort of students.

Since opening in 2015, the school has grown from five pupils and two staff to more than 270 students and 18 staff.

Breakfast and lunch meals are currently prepared in a temporary kitchen, which was built in 2022 by the two cooks, but is now in need of an upgraded permanent facility.

Plans for a new and efficient kitchen space have been drawn up, but rely on fundraising efforts to see the project completed. The new kitchen will allow for a multifuel operation (wood, gas and coal) to support increasing demand.

MBFA was founded by Jersey teacher Ruth Smith and provides education to children aged between two and 14 years old.

The Malindi Academy ensures all children are given breakfast and lunch five days per week. These meals provide the pupils with nutritious food to support their educational development and an incentive to attend school.

Cooking of 600 meals per day currently takes place in open air using large Sufrais (saucepans) and wood fires.

Once the kitchen is built, it is hoped students and lecturers from Highlands College will be able travel to Kenya to work in the kitchen and experience different cultural practices.

As part of fundraising efforts, the Student Ambassador Leadership Team (SALT) at Highlands College is organising a two-day Bikeathon on 28 and 29 May. The aim is to raise £15,000 for the new kitchen.

This event, supported by The Fitness Agency Jersey, will involve staff and students in 30-minute biking slots.

Additional fundraising events include a Coffee Morning on 30 May and an “All things Kenyan” dinner that evening.

To enquire about tickets for the “All things Kenyan” dinner please call the Academy Restaurant on 01534 608560 or email academy@highlands.ac.uk.