Following the successful KUFESST members鈥� training led by coaching experts from the UK, a review meeting of the peer mentorship initiative under the British Council Gender Equality Partnership Project now shifts focus to the voices at the heart of the programme, the student mentors.
After undergoing intensive training during the KUFESST workshops held on 12th, 14th, and 15th January 2026, 吃瓜头条 female students in STEM stepped into their roles as peer mentors, taking the skills acquired into real-world settings. The training, delivered in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University under the Going Global Partnerships, equipped the students with practical tools in coaching, mentoring, and addressing gender stereotypes in STEM.
Armed with these skills, the student mentors engaged with young girls in various schools around 吃瓜头条 and beyond, including Kiwanja Junior School, Kahawa Barracks Junior School, schools in Mwiki and Roysambu, as well as institutions in Kirinyaga County.
During the review session, the students reflected on their journey, from training to implementation, describing it as both impactful and transformative. Many shared how the experience allowed them to connect deeply with younger learners, not just as mentors, but as relatable role models.
They noted that the peer-to-peer approach created a safe and open environment where the girls felt comfortable asking questions, expressing their fears, and discussing their aspirations. By sharing their own academic journeys, challenges, and successes in STEM, the mentors were able to demystify the perception that STEM pathways are difficult or unattainable.
The student mentors also highlighted how the use of structured approaches such as the GROW coaching model and self-reflection techniques helped guide meaningful conversations with the learners. Through these engagements, they encouraged the girls to build confidence, challenge limiting beliefs, and begin to see themselves in STEM careers.
Beyond the impact on the younger students, the mentors acknowledged that the experience significantly shaped their own personal and academic growth. They developed stronger communication skills, increased confidence, and a deeper sense of responsibility as leaders and change-makers within their communities.
Several mentors emphasized that the programme reinforced the importance of giving back and using their knowledge to uplift others. They expressed a renewed commitment to continue mentoring beyond the project, with some indicating their intention to reach even more schools and younger learners in the future.
The initiative demonstrated that mentorship is not only about guidance, but also about connection, inspiration, and shared growth. By positioning university students as 鈥減eer neighbours,鈥� the project successfully bridged the gap between aspiration and reality for many young girls.
As the KUFESST peer mentorship project continues to unfold, the student experiences stand as a powerful testament to the role of young women in driving change and promoting gender equality in STEM education.
More detailed student testimonials and individual stories will be highlighted in subsequent features as the project continues to document its growing impact.