Egerton University has initiated a collaborative effort with key stakeholders to rejuvenate 4K Clubs in ten schools across Njoro Sub-County. The initiative is designed to provide young learners with essential knowledge and practical skills in responsible crop protection and sustainable agriculture, addressing both educational needs and broader environmental challenges.
As part of this revitalization effort, the university is conducting training sessions for 4K Club patrons, student members, and school administrators. These sessions focus on agricultural innovation and environmentally conscious farming practices, helping embed a culture of sustainability within the participating schools.
Recent visits to Ndege Primary School and Njoro DEB Primary School highlighted the progress already being made. Pupils proudly showcased vegetable gardens they maintain as part of club activities. At Njoro DEB Primary, the students have expanded their focus to include agroforestry, growing tree seedlings alongside food crops. These hands-on experiences are nurturing a deeper understanding of farming and its role in environmental conservation.
The program currently involves learners in Grades 4 through 6, but plans are underway to expand participation to youth up to 35 years old. This proposed expansion aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the initiative by engaging a wider age range in agricultural education and practice.
Each participating school is paired with a mentor from the university and supported by a teacher patron and student coaches from the Agricultural Education and Extension Student Association. This framework ensures that learners benefit from professional guidance and peer support as they explore agricultural topics and techniques.
The renewed focus on 4K Clubs comes at a time when climate change poses significant risks to agriculture and food security. The initiative is equipping students with tools to adapt to these challenges through practices such as water conservation, soil preservation, tree planting, and waste management. These skills are critical in preparing the next generation to lead in climate resilience and sustainable development.
Historically, 4K Clubs played an important role in teaching practical farming, environmental stewardship, and community service. However, their prominence declined due to shifting educational priorities and limited resources. The current revival is timely, as Kenya faces the real and increasing impacts of climate change, including droughts and floods.
By integrating sustainable agricultural practices into school activities, the initiative is promoting behavior change not only among students but also within the wider community. The program emphasizes the responsible use of crop protection innovations and the adoption of methods that enhance environmental and public health.
The clubs also align closely with Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which emphasizes the acquisition of practical, real-world skills. Through their involvement in 4K Clubs, students are learning how to address issues such as deforestation, soil degradation, and food insecurity, while also gaining a sense of responsibility toward their environment.
This multi-stakeholder approach aims to build agricultural and environmental literacy among young learners and position them as change agents in their communities. By embedding principles of sustainability and innovation into the educational experience, the program aspires to contribute to a future where food systems are more secure, ecosystems are better protected, and communities are healthier and more resilient.
