Talents are a key part of a learner’s growth, shaping confidence, creativity, and future opportunities. Yet many schools focus almost entirely on exams and grades, leaving abilities in art, technology, sports, or leadership underdeveloped. In Kenya, learners often lack structured opportunities to explore and strengthen their skills. Mentorship and targeted talent programs offer a way to bridge this gap, helping students grow beyond the classroom.

Limited Access to Platforms

One of the biggest challenges is the scarcity of programs that allow learners to develop their talents. Many schools lack clubs, practical workshops, or mentorship initiatives. Observations from schools in coastal Kenya show that only a small fraction of students have access to organized activities like music, coding, or sports, while the majority rely on family or community support. In rural areas, poverty and household responsibilities make it even harder for students to pursue their interests. As one student shared, “I love drawing and want to become an animator, but there is no one to teach me or show me how to make it a career.”

Expectations and Pressures

Cultural norms and academic expectations can further limit talent development. Schools and communities often prioritize core subjects such as mathematics, sciences, and languages, leaving little room for creative or technical pursuits. When students’ abilities are overlooked, motivation can decline, sometimes leading to disengagement or dropping out.

National exams add another layer of pressure, creating high-stress classrooms. Students facing economic or family challenges feel the weight of these expectations most acutely, making it difficult to focus on talents and personal growth.

The Role of Teachers

Teachers play a vital role, but many are stretched thin. Overcrowded classrooms, heavy workloads, and limited training make it difficult to identify and nurture individual strengths. Mentorship programs, whether led by educators or external mentors, have been shown to boost confidence and engagement in learners who are exploring skills like coding, entrepreneurship, or music.

Mentorship and Growth Opportunities

Providing mentorship, creating clubs, and offering platforms for learners to showcase their talents can transform how students experience school. Programs that combine mentorship with community support, partnerships with creative or technical organizations, and access to learning resources help students gain confidence and develop their skills effectively.

Moving Forward

In areas where structured talent development is rare, mentorship and targeted programs are essential. By investing in initiatives that allow learners to explore and grow their abilities, schools can equip students with the confidence, skills, and vision to pursue meaningful careers and contribute positively to their communities.

Focusing on talents doesn’t just enhance academic learning—it transforms education into an experience that values creativity, individuality, and potential.